Johns Island Council reviews rental application amidst concerns over short term usage

The Charleston County Board of Zoning Appeals convened on April 7, 2025, to address a complex case regarding a long-term rental application that raised questions about its classification and the necessity for a short-term rental permit. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the implications of renting properties through LLCs and the potential for maximizing rental income.

A key point of contention was whether the rental arrangement, which involved multiple tenants over a period of time, necessitated a short-term rental permit. Board members expressed confusion over the application details, noting that the submitted information was too general to make an informed decision. Member Ms. Smith questioned the need for a short-term rental, while Mr. Nelson suggested that the rental rates for long-term versus short-term rentals could influence the decision but were not part of the criteria for approval.

As discussions progressed, Mr. Jordan proposed a motion to deny the application, which would require the applicants to wait 12 months before reapplying. However, several board members, including Mr. Truslow, advocated for deferring the decision to allow the applicants to provide more detailed information. The board ultimately agreed that a deferral would be prudent, enabling the applicants to clarify their intentions and potentially avoid unnecessary delays.

The board also addressed procedural concerns regarding the application fee, which had already been paid by the applicants. It was clarified that while the fee could not be refunded, a deferral would not incur additional costs for the applicants.

After deliberation, the board voted to reopen the case for further questioning of the applicants. Justin Hetherington, representing the property owners, provided insights into the rental structure, indicating a willingness to adapt the lease agreements to meet the board's requirements. He confirmed that the rental could involve individual leases for varying durations, which could help clarify the rental classification.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to gather more information and reassess the application in the future, ensuring that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the requirements and implications of the rental arrangement. The next steps will involve the applicants submitting a detailed letter of intent for further review.