Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island permits short-term rentals (any stay under 30 days) island-wide for residential properties, subject to an active annual permit and business license from the Town of Hilton Head Island. In October 2025, the Town moved to a per-bedroom permit fee of $150 per bedroom annually, replacing the prior flat $250 fee; a 2-bedroom property now pays $300 per year and a 7-bedroom pays $1,050. There is no owner-occupancy or primary-residence requirement and no annual night cap. However, properties within HOA or private community governance, such as Sea Pines, must submit a letter confirming the association permits STRs; private covenants can effectively prohibit rentals regardless of Town rules. Tax obligations total approximately 11%, comprising 7% South Carolina state sales and accommodations tax, 3% Town local accommodations tax, and 1% Beaufort County green space fee, plus the Town Beach Preservation Fee. Operators must file quarterly tax returns with the Town Revenue Services Office. Operational requirements include the permit number in all advertising, 24/7 reachable owner or agent who must respond to complaints within 60 minutes, maximum six vehicles and parking spaces, trash and noise disclosures, fire extinguisher, smoke and CO detectors, and propane grill safety shutoffs. Enforcement uses escalating fines of $250, $500, and $1,000 for first, second, and subsequent violations, with permit revocation after three citations within 12 months.