Short-term Rentals

Short-term rentals (STRs) play an important role in North Myrtle Beach’s tourism economy by providing flexible lodging options for visitors to our City. Property owners who offer short-term accommodations must comply with the City’s business licensing requirements and remit rental accommodations tax. The City encourages all STR operators to act as responsible neighbors and to screen guests appropriately, follow local laws, and respond quickly to issues when they arise.

Oceanfront scene of North Myrtle Beach with Various Residential Types Shown

Basic Requirements

The City actively monitors rental activity to ensure properties are properly licensed and operated in a way that respects the surrounding community.
  • All short-term rentals located within the City of North Myrtle Beach are required to obtain a business license.
  • STR’s are required to collect and remit rental accommodations tax to the city, county and state.
  • Owners and managers must renew licenses annually and ensure that license information is up to date.
  • STRs must comply with applicable ordinances related to trash collection, parking, noise, and occupancy.
  • There is currently no special zoning or permit process required beyond standard licensing.

Background: How We Got Here

The City of North Myrtle Beach has received growing public interest in the topic of STRs, including how they operate, how they are managed, and how they impact both neighborhoods and the local economy. In response, the City has committed to a thoughtful, community-informed process to better understand the issues and explore potential solutions. Key milestones in the ongoing conversation include the following:
  • July 30, 2018, Special Called City Council Meeting: City Council met to consider imposing a 4-month moratorium for residential units with 8+ sleeping areas intended for use as  a Short Term Rental (Ordinance Failed). Link to Agenda
  • August 19, 2020, City Council Workshop: City Council held a workshop on a possible short-term rentals ordinance (Ordinance not adopted). Link to agenda.  
    Link to minutes.
  • November 20, 2024, City Council Workshop: City Council began preliminary discussion about short-term rentals, licensing, enforcement, and public concerns. Watch the video
  • January 7, 2025, City Council Workshop: Council continued its discussion, hearing proposals from the community. Watch the video
  • June 10, 2025, STR Information Gathering Event (Resident Perspective): Over 200 residents attended a public session to share their concerns and ideas related to STRs in their neighborhoods. Read more and view photos
  • September 30, 2025, STR Information Gathering Event (Owner/Operator Perspective): A second public session was scheduled to hear directly from STR owners and managers about the challenges they face. Read more and view photos