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Short-Term Rentals

Charleston's Short-Term Rentals: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles short-term rentals a little differently. In Charleston, West Virginia, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Short-Term Rental Permits

Charleston requires a free residential rental license for any rental unit leased "by day, week, month, year, or any other term": a definition that pulls Airbnb-style short-term rentals into the same rule as long-term leases.

Key details: License required: Yes, no fee charged. Covers short-term stays: Rentals "by day" included. Fine for noncompliance: $500+ per unit, per month. Issued by: City Collector's office.

Renting without the license draws a fine of at least $500 per rental unit, with each month of continued noncompliance counted as a separate violation; cases are heard in Charleston Municipal Court.

This is one of the stricter rules in Charleston's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Taxes & Fees

Charleston collects a 6% municipal hotel occupancy tax on short-term lodging, covering hotels, motels, inns, and tourist homes; guests staying 30+ consecutive days are exempt.

Key details: Tax rate: 6% of room charge. Long-stay exemption: 30+ consecutive days untaxed. Small-facility note: Under 3 rooms excluded from definition. Who remits: Hotel operator collects, city collects. Revenue use: 50%+ to Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Willful failure to collect, remit, or file returns is a misdemeanor under Sec. 110-224, plus a 5% first-month and 1% per-month penalty and 6% annual interest on unpaid tax under Sec. 110-225.

The Bottom Line

Charleston's short-term rentals rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Charleston is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Charleston's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.