Hilton Head Island, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Hilton Head Island Town Council is considering a moratorium on new short-term rental properties due to rising community concerns. The proposed pause aims to address issues regarding community character, infrastructure, and rental property management. While community members express differing views, Mayor Alan Perry opposes the measure, fearing potential negative impacts on property values. A new ordinance to regulate short-term rentals is also being developed, focusing on fire safety and parking issues.
Hilton Head Island Town Council Considers Short-Term Rental Moratorium
The Hilton Head Island Town Council is exploring the possibility of implementing a moratorium on new short-term rental properties, subdivisions, and timeshares amid rising community concerns. During recent council discussions, members expressed the desire to pause new applications as a means to address issues regarding community character, infrastructure, and rental property management.
The moratorium, proposed at a council meeting, signals a growing scrutiny of the burgeoning short-term rental industry on Hilton Head Island. Concerns have been raised about potential negative impacts a moratorium might have on property values and tax revenue generated from rental fees. Stakeholders estimate that over 60% of investors or second-home owners could be impacted by such a measure, raising further questions about the economic implications for the community.
While the proposal has sparked debate, community member Richard clarified that it is not a ban but rather a pause intended for thoughtful planning regarding future regulations. Mayor Alan Perry has publicly stated his opposition to the moratorium, citing fears that it could lead to decreased property values in the area.
Background on the Discussion
This conversation regarding short-term rentals is not a new one; it was initially proposed by Council member Patsy Brison at a meeting in July. Brison suggested a 90-day pause for new rental applications to allow current permitholders to reapply. Furthermore, a potential 180-day delay on new subdivisions and timeshares has been mentioned to permit the council to focus on updating development standards.
Council member Tamara Becker also raised questions about the appropriate number of short-term rentals in the area and how they impact the quality of life for local residents. Public comments at the council meeting reflected concerns from both residents and stakeholders involved in the short-term rental market, with nearly two hours allocated to these discussions.
No final vote was taken on the moratorium, but the intention is to revisit the matter at future meetings. Stakeholders believe that implementing a temporary pause could help develop sensible guidelines, promoting responsible growth while maintaining Hilton Head’s distinctive character.
Proposed Regulations
A new ordinance is in the works to regulate short-term rentals, aiming to address pressing issues like fire safety, parking, and occupancy limits. Currently, there are 7,112 short-term rental permits registered on Hilton Head Island as of January 31, 2025. Safety concerns have intensified following a tragic event in 2022, when a fire in a rental property resulted in the death of a 65-year-old man.
Potential regulations may include restrictions on parking at rental properties and improvements to fire safety measures, especially for larger homes that could pose more significant risks. There is a consensus among council members and stakeholders that existing regulations have not been adequately enforced, leading to calls for more effective management in the future.
Future council meetings will continue to focus on discussions surrounding both the proposed regulations and the potential moratorium on new short-term rentals.
FAQ Section
What is the Hilton Head Town Council considering regarding short-term rentals?
The Town Council is considering a pause on new short-term rental properties, subdivisions, and timeshares amid community concerns.
Who proposed the moratorium on short-term rentals?
The moratorium proposal was first suggested by Council member Patsy Brison at a July meeting.
What percentage of investors or second-home owners could be affected by the moratorium?
Over 60% of investors or second-home owners could be affected by a moratorium.
What did the mayor state about the moratorium on short-term rentals?
Mayor Alan Perry publicly stated his opposition to a moratorium on short-term rentals, expressing concerns about diminished property values.
How many short-term rental permits are currently registered on Hilton Head Island?
As of January 31, 2025, there are 7,112 short-term rental permits registered on Hilton Head Island.
What are some proposed regulations for short-term rentals?
Proposed regulations may include limits on vehicle parking at rental properties and improved fire safety measures, particularly for larger homes.
Key Features of Hilton Head Short-Term Rental Discussion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Proposed Moratorium | Consideration of a pause on new short-term rental properties, subdivisions, and timeshares. |
| Patsy Brison’s Proposal | Initial suggestion for a 90-day pause on new rental applications. |
| Stakeholder Concerns | Over 60% of investors or second-home owners could be affected, with economic implications for property values and tax revenue. |
| Current Permits | 7,112 short-term rental permits registered as of January 31, 2025. |
| Safety Issues | Concerns heightened after a fatal fire resulted in a loss of life in 2022. |
| Future Regulations | Potential regulations may address fire safety, parking, and occupancy limits. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Council Considers Short-Term Rental Moratorium
Hilton Head Island Prepares for Major Beach Renourishment
Hilton Head Island Introduces Free Parking at Beaches
Hilton Head Council Debates Short-Term Rental Moratorium Amid Community Concerns
Hilton Head Island Considers New Short-Term Rental Regulations
Hilton Head Residents Unite Against Short-Term Rentals
Hilton Head Island Town Leaders Consider Moratorium on Short-Term Rentals
Port Royal Implements New Rules for Short-Term Rentals
Additional Resources
- WSAV: Hilton Head Debates Temporary Halt on Short-Term Rentals
- Island Packet: Hilton Head Short-Term Rental Moratorium Discussion
- WTOC: Town Council Considers Pause on New Rental Properties
- Island Packet: Real Estate News on Short-Term Rentals
- Post and Courier: Hilton Head Short-Term Rentals Insight
- Wikipedia: Short-term Rental
- Google Search: Hilton Head Short-Term Rentals
- Google Scholar: Hilton Head Short-Term Rentals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Short-term Rentals
- Google News: Hilton Head Short-Term Rentals
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
