New residents moving to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina should be aware of several important local rules and ordinances designed to protect community character, manage growth, and ensure neighborhood livability.
Short-Term Rental Permits
A special permit and business license are required to rent out any home (or part of a home) as a short-term rental, and all available permits for 2025 have been issued.
Permits that become available throughout the year go to a waitlist. Residents must also pay state and county taxes on rental income, and meet occupancy requirements for homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Zoning and Land Use
The updated Zoning Code of Ordinances (effective May 1, 2025) governs land use, property improvements, tree removal, signage, and accessory buildings.
Permits are required for significant changes such as removing trees, adding apartments above garages, or altering business signage. The municipal code ensures all development aligns with the town’s comprehensive growth plan, promoting efficient and orderly land use.
Growth Controls and Building Permits
Mount Pleasant enforces a building permit allocation system to control residential growth. This limits the number of new building permits each year as part of a broader plan to prevent overcrowding and maintain infrastructure quality.
Permit distribution balances traditional development with quality-of-life goals, and changes must adhere to the latest ordinance—so new builds may be subject to waitlists or restrictions.
Additional Practical Details
Residents are encouraged to review detailed codes and local rules before making property changes, starting rental operations, or setting up home businesses.
The town’s Code of Ordinances is available online for reference.
Staying informed about these regulations helps new residents contribute to the thriving, well-managed community that makes Mount Pleasant a sought-after place to live.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.tompsc.com/1154/Short-Term-Rentals)
[2](https://www.tompsc.com/148/Planning-Land-Use-and-Neighborhoods)
[3](https://mountpleasantmagazine.com/2023/news/mount-pleasant-ordinance/)
[4](https://www.tompsc.com/119/Code-of-Ordinances)
[5](https://www.mtpleasantwi.gov/2461/Applications-Permits)
