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Residential Rental Registration Pilot Program
Residential Rental Registration Pilot Program
The Residential Rental Registration Program will be piloted in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. Property owners and/or property managers of long term residential rental properties in this neighborhood must register these properties by February 28, 2023. Each long term residential rental unit must be registered. If you are an out of state property owner you must have a responsible local representative whose primary place of residence or business office is within thirty (30) miles of the City of Charleston.
An application and $40.00 annual fee are required for each TMS (Tax Map Sequence Number) with an additional $10 per unit not to exceed $100 total per TMS number. One application may be submitted per TMS. Any property owner with 5 or more long term rental units in the City of Charleston must also have a business license.
Resources
Residential Rental Registration Ordinance
Residential Rental Registration Application
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why has the City of Charleston adopted a Residential Registration Program? The City has historically had difficulty enforcing livability regulations in areas with high numbers of residential rental properties. The purpose of this ordinance is for City staff to be able to communicate more effectively with owners, property managers and landlords about their rental units.
- How do I know if I need to register? If you own a rental unit(s) within the Cannonborough/Elliottborough neighborhood, you must register the unit(s).
- What if I own a rental in the City of Charleston but I live out of state? If you own a rental in Charleston but live out of state you must have a responsible local representative whose primary place of residence or business office is within thirty (30) miles of the premises. This can be a property manager, property management company, or a trusted person designated by the property owner.
- Are there any fees associated with the program? Yes, there is an annual $40 fee for each TMS and an additional $10 per unit not to exceed $100 per TMS.
- How can I pay for my registration fee? All payments can be made through the Charleston Customer Self Service portal. You will also have the option of paying in person at the city Permit Center located at 2 George Street.
- Do I need a business license? Yes, if you have five or more long term rental units in the city you must apply for a business license. Information related to obtaining a business license can be found on the webpage for the Revenue Collections Division.