News Release

Hilton Head Island Town Council Passes Ordinance Impacting Short-Term Rentals During COVID-19 Crisis

April 7, 2020

In furtherance of the Executive Orders issued by S.C. Governor Henry McMaster, the Hilton Head Island Town Council today passed an emergency ordinance that impacts short term rentals in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

Pursuant to the Ordinance, the following restrictions are hereby in effect:

• As of 12:01 a.m. on April 8, 2020, owners of short-term rental accommodations and their property managers, if any, are directed to cease and desist any rental that commences after this date and time and must refrain from such activity for the duration of this emergency ordinance.

• As of 12:01 a.m. on April 8, 2020, no person shall check in or begin their occupancy of any rental commencing after this date and time and must refrain from such activity for the duration of this emergency ordinance.  

• Any person already occupying a rental unit prior to 12:01 a.m. on April 8, 2020, is exempted from this emergency ordinance.

The restrictions outlined above go into effect at 12:01 a.m., April 8, 2020 and will be in effect for 61 days or until the State of Emergency has been rescinded, whichever comes first.