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Central Pacolet council adopts short‑term rental regulations, adds enforcement and licensing
Summary
Council passed ordinance 2026-05 to authorize and regulate short‑term rentals, creating an accommodations tax revenue source and a yearly licensing and inspection regime; members debated limiting STRs in certain neighborhoods and emphasized enforcement against nuisance activity.
Central Pacolet’s council voted to adopt ordinance 2026‑05 on second reading to allow and regulate short‑term rentals (STRs) in town, a move council members said will generate accommodations tax revenue and give the town direct oversight of properties that previously operated without regulation.
Council discussion focused on neighborhood protections and enforcement. One member said residents in established neighborhoods had complained about unregulated STRs becoming “party houses,” and urged permitting limits in sensitive districts. Supporters said regulation — including annual licensing, inspections, and the ability to revoke licenses for nuisance violations — will provide clearer enforcement tools. "If residents complain and there are legitimate nuisance claims under our ordinance, we can review status and revoke licenses," a council member said.
The ordinance also makes STR income subject to the town’s accommodations tax, adding revenue to the hospitality fund that can be used for visitor‑related projects and events. Council members noted the town currently has little STR activity and that the new rules will make operators visible to the town and police for monitoring and compliance.
After discussion and clarification from the police chief about enforcement and inspection logistics, council moved, seconded and adopted the ordinance on second reading. Several members said they would consider additional amendments in the future if concentrated problems appear in specific neighborhoods.
