Compliance and Violations: Short-term rentals must comply with safety, zoning, and building codes, including fire safety and emergency exit requirements. Violations can result in fines, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses (ranging from $500 to $1000). The City may suspend or revoke the short-term rental certificate for repeated violations, and owners have the right to appeal such decisions. Non-compliance with the ordinance could lead to further legal action. To register a complaint, call (912) 330-2605 or Submit Online.
The City of Pooler has adopted a Short-Term Rental Ordinance to regulate residential properties used as short-term rentals, aiming to protect public health, safety, and the well-being of the community. This ordinance establishes procedures for the operation of short-term rentals and outlines requirements for owners, agents, and operators to ensure compliance with zoning, safety, and tax regulations.
Forms:
- New Short Term Rental Application
- New Short-Term Rental Code Compliance Affidavit
- Short-Term Rental Agent Change
- Good Neighbor Rack Card
Fees:
- Application – $350.00
- Renewal (Annual) – $250.00
Requirements: Owners operating a short-term rental without a business license must submit proof of past operations and comply with the new rules by June 16, 2025 (within 90 days from the effective date of the ordinance, which is March 18, 2025). Owners renewing their business license will need to comply with the new ordinance when they file for their annual renewal by December 1st each year.
Operation: To operate a short-term rental in Pooler, individuals or entities must obtain both a business license and a short-term rental certificate. The certificate is non-transferable and can only be used by the entity to whom it is issued. It is valid until December 31st each year, and certificates cannot be issued for properties within 500 feet of an existing licensed short-term rental.
Application and Agent Designation: Applicants for a short-term rental certificate must submit an annual application to the City, including property details, ownership documentation, and a designated rental agent (who may be the property owner). The agent is responsible for managing the rental and ensuring compliance with all regulations, including emergency contact information within the rental. Applicants must also provide a non-refundable fee, floor and site plans, proof of property ownership, proof of insurance, and a notification to adjacent property owners. The agent must be available to address any issues that arise and ensure adherence to city regulations. If the rental agent changes, the City must be notified within five business days.
Certificate Issuance and Renewal: Applications are reviewed by the City, and certificates are issued within 60 days if all conditions are met. Certificates must be renewed annually before expiration, with renewals accepted on a first-come, first-served basis starting December 1st. Failure to renew results in automatic termination of the certificate, and the rental property is no longer authorized for use.
Taxes: All short-term rental operators must comply with local occupation taxes and applicable state and local hotel-motel excise taxes, as set by state law and the City’s regulations.
Zoning and Permitted Use: Short-term rentals, including both Home-based Lodging and Home-based Lodging, Hosted uses, are permitted in residential districts (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-A, RA-1, RA-2, and PUD). Specific requirements include no external signage, adequate off-street parking, and restrictions on events and gatherings. The number of guests must comply with building code occupancy limits, and a minimum of one parking space is required for every three adult occupants.
Regulations for Existing Short-Term Rentals: Entities currently operating short-term rentals with a valid business license must comply with the new ordinance, excluding the distance requirement from other licensed rentals. Those operating without a license must submit proof of twelve (12) months prior operations before March 15, 2024 and comply within ninety (90) days, or they will be deemed in violation.