Hilton Head Town Council considers pause on new rental properties

HILTON HEAD, S.C. (WTOC) - Short-term rental properties are a big discussion on Hilton Head Island. The town council is considering a pause on new rental properties.

Council members say they want to discuss how to prevent pre-emptive applications, manage impacts on community character, and address infrastructure concerns.

Tuesday, during the Hilton Head Town Council meeting, a moratorium was discussed on short-term rental properties.

With this being the number one industry on the island, and millions of dollars in tax revenue coming from it every year, many were concerned about what could happen if the moratorium was voted into place.

“It definitely would affect property values, over 60% of investors or second home owners, um so this was major and great thanks to the mayor for what he came out and said we have averted probably what could have been a very damaging thing,” said Jocelyn Staigar, Government Affairs Director of Hilton Head Area Realtors. “Hilton Head’s economy, real estate, tourism, it’s what we are.”

Staigar also believes this is not a widespread problem.

Community members who supported the moratorium say they just want time to make a plan for moving forward.

“This is not a ban, it’s a pause to give our community time for a thorough thoughtful review and to develop sensible guidelines,” said Richard, who spoke at the council meeting. “Guidelines that promote responsible growth while preserving what makes Hilton Head so great.”

The town council did not take a final vote during Tuesday’s meeting.

Mayor Alan Perry was very clear on his stance.

“I am not for a moratorium on short-term rentals,” Perry said.