Bill > H3861

This bill amends South Carolina state law to prevent local governments (municipalities, counties, and other political subdivisions) from enacting or enforcing any ordinances that would prohibit short-term rentals of residential properties. Specifically, the bill defines a "short-term rental" as a residential dwelling rented for less than 29 consecutive days, and establishes significant penalties for local governments that attempt to restrict such rentals. If a local government creates an ordinance banning short-term rentals, they will lose two key financial benefits: they cannot collect the six percent property assessment ratio for qualifying real property, and the State Treasurer will withhold their State Aid to Subdivisions Act distribution until the restrictive ordinance is repealed. The bill comprehensively defines key terms like "residential dwelling" (any building used as a home or sleeping place) and "short-term guest" (a person renting a short-term rental), and explicitly states that this law supersedes any existing local regulations that might contradict its provisions. The bill will take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval, providing a clear statewide policy that protects property owners' rights to offer short-term rentals.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3861&session=126&summary=B