Greenville Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Greenville,North Carolina?

Greenville, North Carolina has enacted specific regulations for short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO, to ensure a balance between the interests of property owners, guests, and the community. If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Greenville, it's crucial to understand and comply with these rules.

To operate legally, you must obtain a permit from the City of Greenville and follow zoning requirements based on the length of your rentals. Properties rented for less than 30 days must be located in specific zones, while those rented for 30 to 89 days have their own set of allowed zones.

In addition to zoning, hosts are required to collect and remit a 3% local accommodations tax monthly. The city will assist in setting up your tax account, and after the initial payment, you can conveniently pay online.

Greenville also has ordinances related to noise, parking, pets, and occupancy that short-term rental hosts must adhere to. The city's new development code further restricts the areas where short-term rentals are permitted.

While Greenville enforces its regulations more strictly compared to some other cities, hosts can still operate successfully by following the permitting process and complying with all rules. The key is to thoroughly research the requirements, obtain the necessary permits, and ensure your property meets all city standards.

By understanding and abiding by Greenville's short-term rental regulations, hosts can create a thriving business while contributing positively to the local community and economy.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Greenville

Are you considering starting a short-term rental business in Greenville, North Carolina? With the rise of popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, many homeowners are turning their properties into profitable short-term rentals. However, before you jump in, it's crucial to understand the specific regulations and requirements set forth by the City of Greenville.

Greenville has implemented zoning requirements and permitting processes to ensure that short-term rentals operate within the city's guidelines. Depending on the length of your rental, your property must be located in an appropriately zoned area.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Greenville

To legally operate a short-term rental in Greenville, North Carolina, all hosts are required to obtain a permit from the City of Greenville. The specific zoning requirements for your property will depend on the length of your rental:

• For rentals less than 30 days, your property must be zoned in one of the following districts: MX-2, MX-3, MX-5, MX-D, MXS-2, MXS-3, MXS-5, MXS-D, BG, BH, IX or CM.
• For rentals between 30 and 89 days, your property must be zoned in one of these districts: RH-A, RH-B, RH-C, RH-D, Rn-A, RN-B, RNX-B, RN-C, RNX-C, RC-2, RC-3, RC-5, IG, CV or PK.

It's crucial to check your property's zoning before applying for a short-term rental permit to ensure you meet the city's requirements. Failure to obtain the proper permit or operating in a non-approved zoning district can result in fines and legal consequences.

The permit application process is straightforward. Simply download the Application Packet provided by the City of Greenville, complete all required information, and submit it to the appropriate department. Once approved, you'll be able to legally list your property on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

Don't risk operating without a permit. Protect yourself and your investment by following Greenville's short-term rental licensing requirements. If you have any questions about the process or your property's eligibility, reach out to the city's planning department for guidance.

Required Documents for Greenville Short Term Rentals

To legally operate a short-term rental in Greenville, North Carolina, you must obtain a permit from the city. The application process is straightforward, but it's essential to have all the necessary documents prepared before submitting your request.

First, download the Short-Term Rental Application Packet from the City of Greenville's website. This comprehensive packet includes the application form and a checklist of required documents.The key documents you'll need to provide are:

• Completed Short-Term Rental Application Form
• Proof of property ownership or a signed lease agreement if you're a tenant
• A detailed floor plan of the rental property, including room dimensions and layout
• Parking plan showing designated parking spaces for guests
• Proof of liability insurance coverage for the rental property
• Signed Affidavit of Compliance, confirming your understanding and agreement to follow all city regulations and ordinances related to short-term rentals

Once you have gathered all the required documents, submit your completed application packet to the City of Greenville's Planning Department. The city will review your application and, if approved, issue your short-term rental permit.

It's crucial to ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays in the approval process. By having all the necessary documents prepared and following the city's guidelines, you'll be well on your way to starting your short-term rental business in Greenville.

Greenville Short Term Rental Taxes

As a short-term rental host in Greenville, it's crucial to understand and comply with the city's tax requirements. If you're renting out your property for periods between 1 and 89 days, you'll need to collect and remit a 3% local accommodations tax.

The process is straightforward: the city will assist you in setting up your accommodations tax account, and you'll be responsible for submitting the taxes on the 20th day of each month. After your initial payment, you can conveniently pay your taxes online, streamlining the process.

It's essential to keep accurate records of your short-term rental income and to file your taxes promptly to avoid any penalties or issues with the city.

By staying on top of your tax obligations, you can ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental operation in Greenville.Remember, the 3% accommodations tax applies specifically to rentals lasting between 1 and 89 days

Greenville wide Short Term Rental Rules

Greenville has implemented a comprehensive set of rules and regulations governing short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO. These rules are designed to balance the interests of property owners, guests, and the community at large.Under Greenville's new development code, short-term rentals are restricted to specific zoning districts. Properties rented for less than 30 days must be located in MX-2, MX-3, MX-5, MX-D, MXS-2, MXS-3, MXS-5, MXS-D, BG, BH, IX or CM zones. For rentals lasting 30 to 89 days, the property must be situated in RH-A, RH-B, RH-C, RH-D, Rn-A, RN-B, RNX-B, RN-C, RNX-C, RC-2, RC-3, RC-5, IG, CV or PK zones.In addition to zoning requirements, the city has established ordinances addressing various aspects of short-term rentals, including:

• Noise: Guests must adhere to the city's noise ordinance, which prohibits excessive noise that disturbs the peace and quiet of neighboring properties.
• Parking: Short-term rental properties must provide adequate off-street parking for guests, in accordance with the city's parking regulations.
• Pets: Guests are required to comply with the city's pet ordinances, which include leash laws and waste disposal requirements.
• Occupancy Limits: The number of guests allowed in a short-term rental is limited based on the property's size and the city's occupancy standards.

To ensure compliance with these rules, short-term rental hosts in Greenville must obtain a permit from the city and pay applicable accommodation taxes. Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in fines, penalties, and the revocation of the short-term rental permit.

By implementing these rules and regulations, Greenville aims to promote the responsible operation of short-term rentals while minimizing their impact on residential neighborhoods and the community as a whole.

Does Greenville strictly enforce STR rules?” Is Greenville Airbnb friendly?

Greenville, North Carolina takes a firm stance on enforcing its short-term rental regulations. The city's recent implementation of a new development code further restricts where short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO are permitted to operate. Compared to other cities, Greenville is less friendly towards short-term rental businesses, prioritizing the preservation of residential neighborhoods and the concerns of long-term residents.

However, this does not mean that operating a short-term rental in Greenville is impossible. Hosts who diligently follow the city's permitting process, zoning requirements, and adhere to all ordinances related to noise, parking, pets, and occupancy can still successfully run a short-term rental business. The key is to thoroughly research and understand the local regulations before investing in a property or listing a space on rental platforms.Based on discussions among Airbnb hosts on forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, it is evident that Greenville's strict enforcement of short-term rental rules has created challenges for some operators. Nonetheless, hosts who remain compliant and adaptable to the evolving regulatory landscape can continue to thrive in the Greenville market.

In summary, while Greenville may not be the most Airbnb-friendly city compared to some other destinations, it is still possible for responsible hosts to operate successful short-term rentals within the city's legal framework. Prospective hosts should be prepared to navigate a more stringent regulatory environment and stay informed about any future changes to the city's short-term rental policies.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Greenville

Starting a short-term rental business in Greenville, North Carolina can be a rewarding venture, but it's crucial to follow the city's regulations to ensure a smooth operation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Research zoning requirements: Before investing in a property or listing your current home, check the city's zoning map to ensure short-term rentals are allowed in your desired location. Properties rented for less than 30 days must be zoned MX-2, MX-3, MX-5, MX-D, MXS-2, MXS-3, MXS-5, MXS-D, BG, BH, IX or CM. For rentals between 30 and 89 days, the property must be zoned RH-A, RH-B, RH-C, RH-D, Rn-A, RN-B, RNX-B, RN-C, RNX-C, RC-2, RC-3, RC-5, IG, CV or PK.

Obtain a permit: Download and complete the city's short-term rental Application Packet, which can be found on the City of Greenville's website. Submit the completed application to the city to obtain your short-term rental permit.

Set up your accommodations tax account: Contact the city's finance department to set up your accommodations tax account. You'll be responsible for collecting a 3% tax on all rentals between 1 and 89 days, which must be paid to the city by the 20th of each month.

Ensure compliance with city ordinances: Familiarize yourself with Greenville's ordinances related to noise, parking, pets, and occupancy limitations. Make sure your property is in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Prepare your property: Create a welcoming and comfortable space for your guests. Consider hiring a professional photographer to showcase your property's best features in your online listings.

List your property: Create listings on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Be sure to highlight your property's unique amenities, local attractions, and proximity to popular destinations.

Manage your bookings and guests: Once your listing is live, be responsive to inquiries and booking requests. Provide excellent customer service to ensure positive reviews and repeat business.

Pay your taxes: Remember to pay your monthly accommodation taxes to the city by the 20th of each month. After your initial setup, you can make these payments online.

By following these steps and adhering to Greenville's short-term rental regulations, you'll be well on your way to running a successful Airbnb or VRBO business in the city.

Who to contact in Greenville about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions about short-term rental regulations or zoning in Greenville, North Carolina, there are two key contacts you should reach out to:

For all zoning-related questions, including whether your property is eligible for short-term rentals, contact the City of Greenville Planning Division:

Email: planning@greenvillesc.gov

Phone: 864-467-4476

For questions about accommodation taxes, setting up your tax account, and making monthly tax payments, contact the City of Greenville Revenue Administrator:

Email: ltraynham@greenvillesc.gov

Phone: 864-467-6696
These city officials are knowledgeable about Greenville's specific short-term rental requirements and can provide the most up-to-date and accurate information. They are available during regular business hours to assist property owners interested in starting a short-term rental business in Greenville.

What do Airbnb hosts in Greenville on Reddit and Bigger Pockets think about local regulations?

Greenville's short-term rental regulations have been a hot topic of discussion among Airbnb and VRBO hosts on popular forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets. Many hosts express frustration with the city's strict stance and the recent changes to the development code that further restrict where short-term rentals are allowed.

One Reddit user, GreenvilleHost, commented, "Greenville's new development code is a major blow to Airbnb hosts. Many areas that were previously allowing short-term rentals are now off-limits for stays under 30 days. This is going to make it much harder for hosts to operate profitably."

On Bigger Pockets, user GvilleSTR echoed these sentiments, saying, "The city council seems determined to make life difficult for short-term rental hosts. They keep adding more restrictions and limitations, even for those of us who have been operating responsibly and following all the rules. It's frustrating and feels like they're trying to push us out of the city altogether."

Some hosts are holding out hope that a state bill challenging Greenville's code will provide some relief. Reddit user UpstateRentals commented, "There's a bill in the state legislature that would limit local governments' ability to restrict short-term rentals. If it passes, it could override some of Greenville's more stringent regulations. But for now, hosts need to be very careful to dot all their i's and cross all their t's when it comes to compliance."

Overall, the consensus among Greenville's Airbnb and VRBO host community seems to be one of frustration and concern. Many feel that the city is making it increasingly difficult to operate a short-term rental business, even for responsible hosts who follow all the rules and regulations. As the city continues to grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by the growing sharing economy, hosts will be watching closely to see how the regulatory landscape evolves.