Charleston short-term rentals must comply with building code occupancy limits and zoning density rules. The International Building Code adopted under Chapter 8 limits sleepers based on bedroom count and square footage in residential dwellings.
Charleston enforces occupancy through a combination of the adopted IBC and IRC building codes under Chapter 8 and zoning standards in Chapter 42. Generally, two persons per bedroom plus two additional occupants is a common rule of thumb, but bedroom definitions require minimum 70 square feet and proper egress. Hosts marketing a property as sleeping more guests than the bedroom count supports risk overcrowding violations. Fire code Chapter 16 also imposes assembly limits if the rental is used for events. Operators should consult zoning maps to ensure their district allows transient lodging.
Exceeding lawful occupancy may trigger building code citation, fire marshal action, zoning enforcement, and revocation of the business license under Chapter 10.
Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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See how Charleston's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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