Port Royal Implements New Rules for Short-Term Rentals

News Summary

The Port Royal Town Council has enacted regulations governing short-term rentals to preserve local neighborhoods. The new ordinance caps rentals at 6% of residential units across designated districts, aiming to maintain community character and address resident concerns about rising rental numbers, which surged 57% over four years. Homeowners will need business licenses for rentals under 29 days, while existing licenses remain unaffected. The changes reflect a broader trend among nearby municipalities to regulate short-term rentals, ensuring a balance between visitor accommodation and community integrity.

Port Royal Takes Action on Short-Term Rentals: A Friendly Neighborhood Watch

In the charming coastal town of Port Royal, where oak trees sway gently and tranquility reigns supreme, the Town Council has rolled out a new set of rules targeting short-term rentals. After hearing from residents who expressed concerns about these rentals taking over their beloved neighborhoods, the council stepped in to create a clearer framework and limit the impact on local identity.

What’s New in the Ordinance?

The recently approved ordinance caps short-term rentals at 6% of total residential units across five designated districts. Why five districts, you might ask? Well, it allows for more focused management of these rentals and helps protect those quiet streets that are so integral to Port Royal’s character.

Interestingly, two of these districts are already fully booked—reaching that 6% limit! Homeowners in areas known for their serenity and stunning oak trees will now see a halt on new short-term rental licenses. It’s a move to ensure that the neighborhood remains a peaceful sanctuary for residents and visitors alike.

New Rules for All Rentals

business license is now mandatory. Owners will pay fees based on their earnings, which helps keep things equitable and ensures a bit of investment back into the community. But don’t worry if you’re already running a rental—the new rules don’t affect existing licenses, nor do they apply to motels and hotels!

A twist in the regulations is that if a property owner sells a home with an existing rental license, they have six months to secure a new license under the new ownership. And here’s a friendly note for those with accessory dwelling units being used as legal residences—their rentals won’t count toward that 6% limit, meaning you can breathe easy if you’ve got a grow-up kid or a beloved grandparent living in a separate space!

Why The Change?

So, what led to all this? Over the last four years, short-term rentals in Port Royal surged by a whopping 57%, jumping from 70 to 110 rentals. Many residents began to worry about how this affects the character of their neighborhoods and the overall affordability of local housing. As concerns grew, the Town Council took action to address the balancing act of maintaining community spirit while still allowing some flexibility for property owners.

Port Royal’s new rules fall in line with nearby municipalities like Beaufort and Hilton Head, both of which have enacted similar leasing caps and licensing requirements. It seems that towns up and down the coast are getting on the same page when it comes to managing short-term rentals, making it an exciting time for community involvement!

Mixed Reactions from Residents

Looking Forward

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Beaufort and Port Royal Municipal Councils Conclude Year with Divergent Meetings
Port Royal Implements New Ordinance to Regulate Short-Term Rentals
68th Annual Beaufort Water Festival Schedule Released

Additional Resources

• Your Island News: Lowcountry Lowdown
• Wikipedia: Short-term rental
• Island Packet: Beaufort News
• Google Search: Port Royal short-term rentals
• WSAV: New Beaufort Ordinance
• Google Scholar: Ordinance impact on community
• Your Island News: Port Royal Wins Again
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community regulations
• Explore Beaufort SC: Downtown Waterfront Park
• Google News: Beaufort community news