Mount Pleasant, SC Short-Term Rentals: Taxes & Fees (2026)
Key Facts
- Owner-occupied application fee
- $250, non-refundable
- Whole-house/ADU application fee
- $500, non-refundable
- Prior illegal operation penalty
- Additional $500 fee
- Permit transfer fee
- $100 review fee
- Renewal window
- Nov 15 to Dec 15 annually
Summary
Mount Pleasant charges a non-refundable $250 STR permit application fee for owner-occupied rentals and $500 for whole-house rentals or ADUs, on top of local accommodations, sales and use taxes the operator owes under state law and town code.
(C) Permit application fee. At the time of the application, a non-refundable application fee of $250 shall be paid for owner-occupied STRs. In the case of whole-house rentals and ADUs, a non-refundable application fee of $500 shall be paid. These fees are established by Town Council and may be changed from time to time. ... (E) Other taxes. STR operators are subject to local, county, and state taxes including, but not limited to property, sales, use, and accommodations taxes, and are liable for the payment thereof as established by state law and this Code.
Full Breakdown
519(C) sets the STR permit application fee at a non-refundable $250 for an owner-occupied rental and $500 for a whole-house rental or an accessory dwelling unit STR, and notes the fees are set by Town Council and subject to change. 519(A)(2)(b). 519(A)(3)(d). 519(D)(1)-(2)). 519(E) makes clear the permit fee is separate from tax liability: STR operators remain subject to local, county, and state property, sales, use, and accommodations taxes, and are liable for paying them as state law and the town code require.
Violations & Fines
Failing to pay outstanding penalty fees blocks review of a renewal application under § 156.519(A)(2)(a). Operating an STR without paying required fees or holding a valid permit is a violation under § 156.522(A)(1); conviction carries a fine up to $500 or imprisonment up to 30 days, plus a civil penalty up to $1,000, and bars reapplying for one year under § 156.522(C).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an STR permit cost in Mount Pleasant?
Are STR operators taxed on top of the permit fee?
When do I have to pay to renew my STR permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mount Pleasant
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