Please click here for the regulations and restrictions.
Dog Leash Regulations on the Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round; however, there are rules and regulations regarding four-legged friends. Printable Leash Map here
Pets must be leashed at all times outside unless they are in an enclosed area (pen, fence, etc.). The only exception to this rule is on the beach, where there are designated year-round dog off-leash areas and seasonal leash restrictions for the remainder of the beach. Leash ordinances are enforced by Beach Patrol and/or Town Code Enforcement officers authorized to ticket offenders, including fines up to $500 plus assessments.
Anyone experiencing problems regarding noncompliance should notify the Town immediately. Beach incidents should be reported to Beach Patrol at 843-518-2880. Off-beach incidents should be reported to Code Enforcement at 843-768-9166.
Areas defined below:
- Critical Habitat Area: Dogs are prohibited year-round in critical habitat areas on each end of the island.
- Dog Use Area: Between the eastern boundary of the Beach Club and the Ocean Course Clubhouse allows dogs off leash under control year-round from dawn to dusk. Pets must be leashed in this area from dusk to dawn. Electronic leashes are prohibited. Owners must remain with their pet, have the pet under control, and have a leash in their possession.
- Seasonal Dog Use Area: The remainder of the beach.
- Mar. 1 – Oct. 15 – Pets must be leashed at all times.
- Oct. 16 – Feb. 28 – Pets are allowed to be off leash from dawn to dusk everywhere on the beach except in the critical habitat area. Pets must be leashed from dusk to dawn. Owners must remain with their pet, have the pet under control, and have a leash in their possession. Electronic leashes are prohibited.
If you’re renting your property for less than 30 consecutive days, you need an annual rental business license for each property prior to advertising or renting and the property must pass inspection for conformance to building codes. A property that is rented for 14 days or less in total during a calendar year is not considered a short-term rental. Any property rented on a long-term lease basis (30 days or longer) must have a standard business license instead of an STR license. You can read more about the process of renting or about the rental presence on the island by visiting the short-term rental section of our website.
- The property must be subscribed to twice a week backdoor trash collection.
- Owners must have an active account with the South Carolina Department of Revenue and Charleston County to submit accommodations tax (see the section on this webpage labeled Sales and Accommodation Taxes).
- Owners must apply for a rental business license with the Town and pass an inspection of the rental properties for conformance to building codes.
The rules for when you are required to collect sales and accommodation taxes are complicated and depend on whether your house is a primary residence (4% assessment) or a secondary residence (6% assessment) and how many days of the year it is rented. There are several taxes that must be collected, and some are paid to the state and some to Charleston County. Provided below are the links.
The annual application fee for the STR Business License, including lot applicants, is $500 for any property located in the R1 or R2 zoning districts subject to caps; $200 for all other properties. In addition, there is an annual license fee that is based on gross receipts. To find out what district a property is in, owners can access the zoning map here or call the Planning Director at 843-768-9979.
In the event a license is not granted due to licenses being capped, the application fee will be suspended until the application is approved, and a license is awarded.
Individuals are responsible for reviewing the entire short-term rental ordinance to ensure compliance. Below is a brief summary:
- Every owner of a property who operates their property as a short-term rental must have a current license during any calendar year in which a short-term rental is operated. A separate license is required for each property. Licenses expire annually on April 30 and are not automatically renewed. Renewals must be reapplied for no later than April 30, without penalty.
- Licenses are distributed by the Town’s finance department and should be applied for through the online services portal. Licenses for rental properties are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Existing STR license holders have first preference to renew by April 30 to maintain their license, as long as the license is in good standing with the Town.
- Licenses do not run with the property unless it is an intra-family transfer of property. If a home with a license is sold, the new owner must apply for their own STR license, subject to section 15-802, and all other provisions in the STR ordinance.
- The owner of an undeveloped lot can obtain a Provisional Lot License (PLL). The PLL is valid for three years from issuance and guarantees the owner the right to obtain a Rental Business License upon issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. PLL’s can only transfer if there is an intra-family transfer of property.
- Properties holding an STR business license will have first preference to maintain their license, as long as the license is in good standing with the Town and they renew by April 30. A license may be subject to expiration or may not be renewed should an owner not report any rental income revenue or not be actively making their property available for rent. The owner will need to demonstrate the short-term rental property was available and advertised for rental throughout the previous year.
- The Town limits the number of rental business licenses issued annually. Caps establish a limit of 20% of all homes, island-wide in R-1 and portions of R-2 and no limit in all other residential zoning districts. The cap is calculated as a percentage of rental licenses (including PLL’s) to developed lots within the R1 zoning district, and the specific R2 zoned areas identified below. Developed lot numbers are defined from the County Assessors Office as of December 31 of the prior calendar year.
- If/when licensing caps are reached, existing license holders have first preference to renew as long as they renew their licenses by April 30 annually, and as long as the license is in good standing with the Town. If the license holder fails to renew their license, they will be placed on a waitlist on a first-come, first-served basis. If the license cap has been reached, new applicants applicant will be placed on a waiting list until a license becomes available.
- To find the zoning district for your property, you can look up your street name on the designation list or on the zoning map. For further assistance, call the Town’s planning department at 843-768-9166.
Each property has a zoning designation associated with it based on density and lot size. The zones addressed in the ordinance are as follows:
- Residential 1 – (R-1) Single-family Homes
- Residential 2 – (R-2) Single-family Homes & Single-family attached (cottages)
- Residential 3 – (R-3) Multifamily (villas)
STR licenses do not transfer with the sale of the unit nor do provisional lot licenses unless there is an intra-family transfer of property. A change in ownership of the STR property shall require the new owner or its authorized agent to apply for a new license which is subject to license availability. The previous owner is responsible for all charges prior to the change of ownership and is responsible for properly closing his/her license with the Town.
The owner of an undeveloped lot can obtain a Provisional Lot License (PLL). The PLL is valid for three years from issuance and guarantees the owner the right to obtain a Rental Business License upon issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. In the event, construction is in process, but a CO has not been issued, the PLL holder may appeal the expiration of the PLL to the Town Treasurer for an extension of up to 120 days. PLL licenses do not transfer with the sale of the unit unless there is an intra-family transfer of property.
Destination or Private Vacation Clubs (“Destination Clubs”) are classified as private and/or exclusive membership organizations or commercial businesses primarily engaged in providing short-term overnight accommodations and related services for its club members with non-ownership interest who seek alternative options to standard vacation home rentals. Destination Clubs typically own or lease properties from the owners on a long-term basis, provide those properties in a variety of locations to its members on a short-term basis, and model a membership access structure where its members purchase membership levels granting access to properties and personalized services. Properties offered by Destination Clubs to a member for less than thirty (30) days are considered STRs whether the Destination Club is an owner of record or a lessee. All references to “owners” in this Chapter apply to Destination Clubs.
Destination Clubs and Private Vacation Clubs are not permitted by the Town’s zoning regulations in Residential Zones R1, R2, and R3 unless they comply with the following requirements:
- Obtains an STR business license for each property;
- Pays all required State Sales Tax (8%), State (2%), County (2%) and Local Accommodation (1%) Taxes on gross receipts collected from STRs;
- Complies with all other rules and regulations applicable to STRs;
- Provides no commercial services on the subject property; and
- The owner of the property, if different from the Destination Club obtains a standard business license.
Any applicable properties in R1, R2, or R3 holding a valid STR business license as of the effective date of this ordinance shall be grandfathered and included in calculating the license cap, subject to the following conditions:
- Residential Business Licenses expire as of April 30 of each year. Failure to renew by the close of business on April 30 will result in the expiration of the license.
- No late renewals will be permitted for non-conforming use properties, including Destination Clubs and Vacation Clubs.
- All grandfathered properties shall remain subject to the requirements of this Chapter as STRs.
- Destination Clubs and Private Vacations Clubs are permitted in Zones R2/Commercial, R3/Commercial, RST-1, RST-2, RST-1/R3, R-2(DA), R-3(DA), and RST-2(DA) are subject to the approval of uses prescribed in the Zoning Ordinance and the requirements of this Chapter as STRs.
The Town’s rules and regulations are applicable to all STR properties whether managed privately or by property management companies and/or the owners. It is the responsibility of the rental owner to abide by the following rules and educate renters:
Renter Education
A copy of the island’s rules and regulations must be provided to each rental guest and a copy of the rules and regulations must be posted in a visible location within each rental unit. Rental owners/agencies may develop their own format of the rules to be posted in the units.
Local Contacts
The owner (or authorized agent) who does not reside within the Charleston Metro Area must identify an individual(s) to serve as a local contact and be authorized and able to respond to emergency conditions or complaints affecting the property and to inquiries from all entities.
You must have a 24-hour contact phone number posted in a visible location within each unit. The local contact must be present within the Charleston Metro Area and be available to respond within two hours after being notified of an emergency by a guest or by a Town employee during any 24-hour period. If there is a change to a local contact, you must provide updated information to the Town of Kiawah Island Business License Department in writing within three business days.
Maximum Occupancy
The maximum occupancy for all short-term rental properties is two occupants per code-compliant bedroom. Two additional occupants are allowed per dwelling unit. For example, a four-bedroom rental property shall have a maximum of ten occupants. Children under the age of 2 are not included in calculating maximum occupancy.
The number of bedrooms for determining occupancy is based on Charleston County Property Tax records. If an applicant seeks to claim more bedrooms than shown on Charleston County records, the owner or agent must contact the Town’s code enforcement office for review and determination prior to renting. Temporary conversion of rooms such as dining rooms, living rooms, studies, etc., for use as bedrooms for rental purposes, is not permitted.
Parking and Driveways
The maximum number of vehicles permitted for overnight parking for each single-family dwelling unit must be in accordance with the number of parking spaces as defined on the rental application. Vehicles may only be parked on permanent paved or gravel parking surfaces. Parking on grass or landscaped areas is prohibited at all times. Vehicles must be parked in a manner that permits the passage of emergency vehicles. Overnight parking in driveways must allow emergency vehicles within 25 feet of the residence.
If a garage is considered in the number of parking spots on the application then access must be provided at all times that the rental is operational. Parking for villa units must be in the villa complex.
Pickups greater than a one-half ton, and cargo vans greater than 12 passengers, recreation vehicles (RVs), buses, trailers, boats, and other large vehicles are prohibited from parking overnight islandwide. Vehicles can not be used for sleeping or overnight accommodations. Properties must comply with St. Johns Fire District requirements and applicable Architectural Review Board regulations for residential zoning districts (R-1, R-2, and R-3) which require that driveway clearance for fire trucks be a minimum of ten feet wide for straight drives and have a height clearance of 13.6 feet.
Trash Collection
Rentals must be subscribed to back-door trash collection two times per week, including recycling service. Trash receptacles must be stored in an enclosed garage or approved screened enclosure whereby the receptacles are not visible from the street. Villas must use provided dumpsters for trash disposal. Dumpster pick-up service must be sufficiently frequent to avoid trash overflow. Dumpsters must be stored on an approved screened pad.
Storage of Personal Items
No clothing or towels are permitted to be draped over deck railings. Bicycles and beach gear and other personal items must be stored in a garage or enclosure and not visible from the street side or adjoining properties or left in a driveway, yard, or parking lot. Villa complexes must provide adequate bicycle racks for overnight bicycle storage. All other gear shall be stored indoors or in provided storage closets.
Exterior Lighting
Outdoor lighting for all other dwellings shall be turned off from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.
From May 15 – October 31, all outdoor lighting, facing seaward in beachfront units must be turned off from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Any of the following will be considered a violation of the Town’s short term rental ordinance:
- Operation of a rental property without complying with the requirements and the Town code of ordinances;
- Misrepresentation on a short-term rental business license application;
- Advertisement of a property as being available as a rental without first complying with the requirements of the Town’s ordinance excluding properties exempt from these provisions of the rental program not exceeding 14 calendar days on an annual basis;
- Expansion of allowable occupancy or parking of a rental unit without obtaining a new license;
- Advertisement of a rental property as being available for more overnight occupants than have been permitted in the ordinance;
- Advertisement or rental of separate guest or pool houses as an independent rental unit. Such units can be included under a rental business license issued to a single address, but it cannot be rented as a stand-alone unit;
- Rental of only a portion or individual rooms of a property, to include detached homes, villas, cottages, and any other property. No rental business license will be issued unless the property is to be rented in its entirety. Owners are permitted to lock off closets or bedrooms from guest access;
- Operation of a commercial business in an STR property. Examples include, but are not limited to catering, telemarketing, or distribution of goods; and
- Pruning or otherwise altering vegetation and dunes without the required permits from the Town or other applicable jurisdiction (Kiawah Island Community Association, or the Kiawah Island Architectural Review Board).
Complaints regarding short-term rentals should be brought to the attention of Town Code Enforcement Offices for follow up. To report addresses that are potentially in violation, please use one of the following reporting methods:
- Call the 24-hour hotline at 843-259-2137
- Email [email protected]
- Submit a complaint through the online submittal form
Any person violating any provision of the ordinance shall be subject to a fine of up to $500 plus required statutory assessments or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both, upon conviction. Each day of violation shall be considered a separate offense. Punishment for the violation shall not relieve the offender of liability for delinquent taxes, penalties, and any other costs.
An owner may authorize an agent or property management firm to comply with the requirements of this ordinance on behalf of the owner. However, the owner shall not be relieved from any personal responsibility and personal liability for noncompliance with any applicable law, rule or regulation pertaining to the use and rental of the STR property, regardless of whether such noncompliance was committed by the owner’s authorized agent, local contact person, renter or guest of the short-term rental.
A property management firm or authorized agent shall be jointly and severally liable for any violations occurring on any of its managed STRs in the Town.
Any property with three violations of the STR ordinance during any 12-month rolling period and found guilty by admission or by the Municipal Judge will be considered cause for license revocation. The owner or agent may reapply for a new STR license no sooner than twelve months after revocation, subject to availability of licenses if the property is located in the zones with the caps.
The Town of Kiawah Island welcomes you to our beautiful community and invite you to take advantage of all our island has to offer. There is one thing you can do which will help make your visit more enjoyable and prevent you and your family from possibility being ticketed by Code Enforcement or Beach Patrol. Read the following rules and regulations as they are strictly enforced.
General
- Gas and electric grills are only permitted on decks of single-family homes. Do not use grills on decks or balconies of condos or villas.
- No open fires or fireworks are allowed at any time except those permitted by the Town.
A detailed list of ordinances and municipal codes available by searching Municode here.
Beach
- Strong rip currents are common. Swim with caution. Charleston County Parks and Recreation provides lifeguards at Beachwalker County Park.
- No wading/swimming in Captain Sam’s Inlet. (western end of the island)
- No glass, metal shovels, plastic carryout bags, plastic straws, Styrofoam, or balloons are allowed.
- Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers.
- No overnight storage of beach equipment (tents, chairs, toys, etc.).
- No open fires or fireworks are allowed at any time except ones permitted by the Town. Fireworks are subject to confiscation.
- No littering. Use waste receptacles at beach accesses.
- No vehicles allowed on the beach except emergency and authorized vehicles.
- Public nudity is prohibited.
- No sleeping on beaches after dark is prohibited
- No launching, retrieving, and beaching of motorized vessels including jet skis are prohibited except for authorized vessels.
- Bikes are allowed on the beach but must be walked across boardwalks. Bikes must be stored overnight in an appropriate storage location where the bikes cannot be visible from the street or adjoining property.
- Commercial business is prohibited on the beach except under license from the Town.
- Fishing – A saltwater fishing license is required for all recreational fishing. Licenses can be obtained at Seacoast Sports and Outfitters 843-768-8486 (Freshfields Village), Bohicket Marina 843-768-1280, or online at the Department of Natural Resources website 843-762-5000.
- Never approach sea turtles, hatchlings, or their nests. Sea turtles are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them in any way.
- May through October – all outdoor lighting visible from the beachfront should be turned off from 9 p.m. to dawn to protect nesting sea turtles. Hatchling turtles are disorientated by artificial light. Fill holes dug in the sand before you leave the beach. If you see any adult sea turtles or hatchings call 843-768-9166 to report your sighting.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BEACHES HERE.
Pets
- Never allow pets to swim in any of the island ponds and keep them away from pond edges. Alligators may be present.
- Pets must be leashed at all times outside unless they are in an enclosed area.
- Pets are allowed on the beach year-round. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round however there are seasonal leash restraint rules. Fines Apply.
- Critical Habitat Area: Dogs are prohibited in the designated critical habitat areas.
- Seasonal Dog Leash Area: From the Critical Habitat Area west of Beachwalker County Park to the eastern boundary of the Beach Club.
- March 16 – October 31 – Dogs must be leashed at all times.
- November 1 – March 15 – Dogs are allowed to be off-leash.
- Dog Use Area: Dogs are allowed off-leash year-round in the designated “dog use area” located between the eastern boundary of the Beach Club and the Ocean Course pedestrian access provided they are under voice command.
- Off-Leash Stipulations: The owner must remain with their pet under control and have in their possession a leash. Pets must be leashed if requested by another beachgoer or by Beach Patrol.
- Clean up after your pets. There are dog bag receptacles at most of the boardwalks.
Transportation
- Private motorcycles, mopeds, Segways, motorized scooters, motorized bicycles, and similar motorized vehicles are prohibited.
- Use the bike paths for biking, jogging or skating. Biking and jogging on roadways is prohibited when there is a designated bike path present.
- Bicycles, skates, and skateboards are not permitted on the roads or golf cart paths but may be used on bike paths and trails.
- Obey speed limits. Watch out for pedestrians, bikers, golfers, skaters, and wildlife, and deer.
- Golf carts are prohibited on Kiawah roads or leisure trails.
- Overnight parking must be off-street.
Parking
- Vehicles must be parked in a garage or driveway with a 25-foot clearance to the residence.
- Parking on the grass or landscaped areas is prohibited.
- Overnight parking must be off-street.
Wildlife
- Never approach, feed or taunt alligators. It’s the law and strictly enforced. Kiawah Island is home to a very healthy population of American alligators that can be seen in almost all of the 183 brackish and freshwater ponds interspersed throughout the island. For that reason, never swim or allow pets to swim in any of the island ponds and stay away from pond edges. Alligators may be present.
- Kiawah Island serves as a vital nesting beach for loggerhead turtles. Do not approach or disturb nesting turtles and abstain from shining lights at them. Loggerheads are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act and are protected by federal and state laws. May thru October – all outdoor lighting visible from the beachfront should be turned off from 9 p.m. to dawn to protect nesting sea turtles.
Storage
- No clothing or towels are permitted to be draped over deck railings.
- Bicycles and beach gear must be stored in a garage or enclosure.
Noise
- Noise ordinance in effect from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily.
Occupancy
- The maximum occupancy for rental properties is two occupants per bedroom. Two additional occupants are allowed per dwelling unit.
Lighting
- Outdoor lighting for all other dwellings shall be turned off from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.
- May thru October – all outdoor lighting visible from the beachfront should be turned off from 9 p.m. to dawn to protect nesting sea turtles.
Flood Management
Flood Awareness
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, affecting every region and state. Flooding on Kiawah Island may be caused by a number of naturally occurring events including hurricanes, wave washes, tidal surges, tidal waves (tsunamis). Heavy rains over a short period can also overwhelm existing drainage capabilities.
Prevention
NO DUMPING OR LITTERING
Do not dump or throw anything into the ditches, streams, or lagoons. Dumping in Kiawah’s waterways and impoundments is a violation of the Town’s Municipal Code, Section 15-213. A single plastic garbage bag can clog a spillway gate and cause a chain reaction backup, resulting in flooding over a large area. Even grass clippings and shrubbery trimmings can accumulate, plugging storm drains and gates.
CLEAR DEBRIS
If your property is adjacent to a ditch, stream, or lagoon, please do your part to keep the banks clear of debris. If you see unauthorized dumping anywhere near ditches, streams, or lagoons, contact Town Hall (843) 768-9166.
GET A PERMIT
Always remember to check with Town Hall, KICA, and the Architectural Review Board before you build on, alter, remodel, re-grade or fill on your property. Permits are required to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable ordinances and regulations. If you have any questions regarding permits, please call the Town’s Building Services department at (843) 768-9166. If you see a building or land alterations at a site without a permit sign posted, report it to the Town (843) 768-9166.
Safeguards
Flood Proofing
- Elevate buildings and homes above expected flood levels. Elevation is regulated for new construction, but existing homes can be raised.
- Waterproof exterior walls.
- Add watertight closures over doorways.
- Move contents, electrical wiring, ductwork, etc. to higher floors if they are susceptible to damage by floodwaters.
- Use water-resistant materials in construction
Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage from flooding. You should purchase flood insurance through an insurance agent that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This coverage is backed by the federal government and is available to every property owner even if your property has a history of prior flooding. There is a limit to the amount of coverage available through this program, but excess coverage may be purchased. Be sure that the flood insurance you purchase covers both the building(s) and contents. Contents are likely to be more subject to damage from floodwaters than the building structure itself
If your insurance agent does not sell flood insurance, you can contact the NFIP Referral Call Center at (888) 379-9531 to request an agent referral.
National Flood Insurance Program Class Rating
The Town of Kiawah Island is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and is awarded a classification rating of 5 through our continued efforts and involvement in the Community Rating System. Please contact your insurance provider for specific rate details.
Town of Kiawah Island Sea-Level Rise Committee
The Sea Level Rise (SLR) Committee, a subcommittee of the Town of Kiawah Island’s Environmental Committee (EC), was formed in February 2017 as a result of EC concerns that the Kiawah community needed to address the growing risk of accelerated sea-level rise. The Committee includes members from Town and KICA staff, Town Council, the Environmental Committee, the Kiawah Conservancy, and Kiawah Island property owners. The Committee is studying sea level rise adaptation plans of neighboring communities with information from, and discussion with, the City of Charleston, Beaufort County, Folly Beach, and Seabrook Island. It is consulting with current and former scientists from the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium, the College of Charleston, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its Office of Coastal Management, and the Union of Concerned Scientists. In addition, the Committee is reviewing national, state, and local articles and reports regarding SLR. The SLR Committee is considering various sea-level scenarios and how these rising sea levels will impact our island’s infrastructure, environment, and way of life. It anticipates a final report by late spring or early summer, 2018 that will provide a comprehensive evaluation of specific mitigation and adaptation recommendations.
Resources
- FEMA Flood Maps
- Determining Base Flood Elevation Educational Video
- Interactive Storm Surge map
- FEMA Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting
Facts
- Flood insurance can be the difference between recovering and being financially devastated.
- The damage from just one inch of water can cost more than $20,000.
- If you allow your flood insurance policy to lapse for either more than 90 days, or twice for any number of days, you may be required to provide an Elevation Certificate (if you don’t have one), and you may no longer be eligible for policy rate discounts you might have been receiving prior to the policy lapse. It’s important to talk with your insurance agent before canceling or not renewing the policy.
- You can file a flood claim even if there is not a Presidential Disaster Declaration.
- Flood damage is not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.
Flood Maps
GREEN SPACE MAP (COMING SOON)
Flood Resources
GARBAGE COLLECTION
Each resident is provided with one green 90-gallon garbage container and one grey 90-gallon recycling container for collection. Depending on availability, additional garbage or recycling containers can be obtained for a fee.
Bags and cardboard must be placed inside the container; items left outside the container will not be collected. Garbage collection takes place on Monday or Tuesday, depending on street recycling on Wednesday. Waste and recycling containers must be available by 7:00 a.m. the day of service or placed curbside after 7:00 p.m. the night before to ensure collection. If you have a backdoor valet service, all containers must be accessible by 7:00 a.m.
Overflow garbage, recycling, and cardboard can be taken to the large capacity compactors at the Kestrel Court Recycling Center. Containers are material-specific and signage is posted to help residents identify what containers to use. Click here to see the informational video
BILLING
There is no cost for curbside collection as a result of the Towns subsidy. A full detailed listing of the service types and corresponding costs is outlined below. Bills are mailed annually in July for the service year of July 1 to June 30. If you wish to change the type of service you receive, please contact the Town at 843-768-9166. Service changes can be made year-round.
Garbage Service Options
Garbage Collection Service Types
Below are the types of collection service types available. Trash collection falls either on Monday or Tuesday depending on your location –Find your garbage collection day here or call 843-768-9166. Island-wide recycling collection is on Wednesdays. Island-wide yard debris collection on Thursdays. All receptacles must be accessible at all times on collection days.
Single-Use Plastics Ban
Effective September 8, 2019, all businesses operating within the Town of Kiawah Island are prohibited from distributing the following items to their customers: (1) single-use plastic carryout bags, (2) plastic straws and (3) products made from polystyrene foam (Styrofoam), including food service ware. The possession of these items, with the addition of balloons, are prohibited on the beach.
Kiawah Town Council passed this new Ordinance on June 4 to regulate the use of harmful materials and promote the use of environmentally preferred materials. The goal of this Ordinance is to protect Kiawah’s natural environment, waterways, and marine life to ensure a positive environmental impact on our island for generations to come.
The Ordinance does not apply to the following list of exemptions:
- Laundry dry cleaning bags, ice bags, or newspaper bags.
- Garbage, pet waste, or yard waste bags.
- Cutlery (i.e., forks, spoons, knives), meat trays, plastic lids used to contain foods and liquids, and to-go condiments.
- Bags provided by physicians, pharmacists or veterinarians to contain prescription drugs or other medical necessities.
- Bags used inside business establishments to contain bulk items or small hardware items
- Meat, produce or bakery bags.
- Bags or wraps for flowers, potted plants or other items to prevent moisture damage.
- Bags used by a non-profit organization or hunger-relief charity to distribute food, grocery products, clothing, or other household items.
- Bags of any type that the customer brings to the store for their own use for carrying away goods from the store.
- Plastic straws necessary for customers with medical or physical conditions.
- Reusable carryout bags that meet the following criteria:
-
- Displays in a highly visible manner on the bag exterior, language describing the bag’s ability to be reused and recycled;
- Has a handle, except that handles are not required for carryout bags constructed out of recyclable paper with a height of less than fourteen (14) inches and width of less than eight (8) inches; and
- Is constructed out of any of the following materials:
- Cloth, canvas, or other washable fabric, or other durable materials whether woven or non-woven;
- Recyclable plastic with a minimum thickness of 4 mils; capable of being cleaned and disinfected, and has a minimum lifetime of one hundred twenty-five (125) uses;
- Recyclable paper.
- Products made from polystyrene/plastic foam, which are wholly encapsulated or encased by more durable material, including but not limited to surfboards, boats, and life preservers.
Businesses that do not comply with this ordinance may face fines up to $500 per offense and other penalties defined in the Enforcement and Penalties section of the Ordinance. If you are unsure about an item, contact Jim Jordan, Chairman of the Environmental Committee (843-768-5106 | [email protected] ) or Chris Makowski, Communications Manager (843-768-5113 | [email protected]). More information can also be found on our frequently asked questions webpage at https://www.kiawahisland.org/plasticsbanfaq/
Request for Exemptions: A grocery establishment or food provider may request an exemption from the requirements of this Ordinance, for a period up to one year, upon written request to Jim Jordan, Chairman of the Environmental Committee. The request must show that the Ordinance would create an undue hardship or practical difficulty not generally applicable to other persons in similar circumstances. Requests should be sent to Jim Jordan via email at [email protected] or by mail to 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Kiawah Island, SC 29455.
Helpful Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Plastics Ordinance
- Plastics Campaign Flyer
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Rental Presence on the Island
On May 14 Town Council passed Resolution 2020-02 which established guidelines for reopening and operation of short-term rentals. The resolution includes protocols guided by the CDC, SCDHEC, and MUSC to promote the safe operation of short-term rentals. All short-term rental properties are encouraged to follow the protocols established in the resolution to prevent exposure of your renters and your workers to the COVID-19 virus. View the protocols here.
The Town’s short-term rental ordinance aims to make sure rental properties are operated safely and do not adversely affect other property owners while also preserving the residential character of the Kiawah’s single-family, residential neighborhoods through enforcement. The information on this page is intended to help property owners know more about the rental presence on the island.
- SHORT-TERM RENTAL LOCATIONS MAP
- REPORT A PROBLEM
- SHORT-TERM RENTAL ORDINANCE
- SEE VIOLATION REPORTING
- LEARN MORE ABOUT RENTING
Report a Violation or Problem
Complaints regarding short-term rentals should be brought to the attention of Town Code Enforcement Offices. To report a property that is potentially in violation, please use one of the following methods of reporting:
- Call the 24-hour hotline at 843-259-2137
- Email [email protected]
- Submit it through the online submittal form
Classification
If a property is rented for less than 30 consecutive days, it is considered a short-term rental. A property that is rented for 14 days or less in total during a calendar year is not considered a short-term rental.
Any property leased from its owner on a long-term lease basis (30 days or longer) must have a standard business license instead of an STR license. However, if ever a long-term rental property is made available for short-term rental, the lessor must carry a standard business license, and the lessee must carry a short term rental license and are subject to the Town’s short-term rental ordinance.
STR Locations Map
Find rentals in your neighborhood or anywhere on the island by looking at the short-term rental location map.
Zoning Districts
Each parcel of land or property has a zoning designation associated with it based on density and lots size. The zones are as follows:
- Residential 1 – (R-1) Single-family Homes
- Residential 2 – (R-2) Single-family Homes & Single-family attached (cottages)
- Residential 3 – (R-3) Multifamily (villas)
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- To find the zoning district for your property, you can look up your street name on the designation list or on the zoning map. For further assistance, call the Town’s planning department at 843-768-9166.
Rules and Regulations
The Town’s rules and regulations apply to all STR properties, whether managed privately or by property management companies or the owners. It is the responsibility of the rental owner to abide by the following rules and educate renters.
Renter Education
A copy of the Town’s rules and regulations must be provided to each rental guest, and the owner or agent must post a copy of the rules and regulations in a visible location within each rental unit. The Town’s Good Neighbor Brochure is available for all rentals to use as a resource.
Local Contacts
If the owner (or authorized agent) does not reside within the Charleston Metro Area, they must identify an individual(s) to serve as a local contact and be authorized and able to respond to emergency conditions or complaints affecting the property and to inquiries from all entities.
A 24-hour contact phone number must be posted in a visible location within each unit. The local contact must be present within the Charleston Metro Area and be available to respond within two hours after being notified of an emergency by a guest or by a Town employee during any 24-hour period.
Maximum Occupancy
The maximum occupancy for all short-term rental properties is two occupants per code-compliant bedroom. Two additional occupants are allowed per dwelling unit. For example, a four-bedroom rental property shall have a maximum of ten occupants. Children under the age of 2 are not included in calculating maximum occupancy.
The number of bedrooms for determining occupancy is based on Charleston County Property Tax records. Temporary conversion of rooms such as dining rooms, living rooms, studies, etc., for use as bedrooms for rental purposes, is not permitted.
Parking and Driveways
The maximum number of vehicles permitted for overnight parking for each single-family dwelling unit must be in accordance with the number of parking spaces as defined on the rental application. Vehicles may only be parked on permanent paved or gravel parking surfaces. Parking on grass or landscaped areas is prohibited at all times. Vehicles must be parked in a manner that permits the passage of emergency vehicles. Overnight parking in driveways must allow emergency vehicles within 25 feet of the residence.
If a garage is considered in the number of parking spots on the application, then access must be provided at all times that the rental is operational. Parking for villa units must be in the villa complex.
Pickups greater than a one-half ton, and cargo vans greater than 12 passengers, recreation vehicles (RVs), buses, trailers, boats, and other large vehicles are prohibited from parking overnight islandwide. Vehicles can not be used for sleeping or overnight accommodations. Properties must comply with St. Johns Fire District requirements and applicable Architectural Review Board regulations for residential zoning districts (R-1, R-2, and R-3) which require that driveway clearance for fire trucks be a minimum of ten feet wide for straight drives and have a height clearance of 13.6 feet.
Trash Collection
Rentals must be subscribed to back-door trash collection two times per week, including recycling service. Trash receptacles must be stored in an enclosed garage or approved screened enclosure whereby the receptacles are not visible from the street. Villas must use provided dumpsters for trash disposal. Dumpster pick-up service must be sufficiently frequent to avoid trash overflow. Dumpsters must be stored on an approved screened pad.
Storage of Personal Items
No clothing or towels are permitted to be draped over deck railings. Bicycles and beach gear and other personal items must be stored in a garage or enclosure and not visible from the street side or adjoining properties or left in a driveway, yard, or parking lot. Villa complexes must provide adequate bicycle racks for overnight bicycle storage. All other gear shall be stored indoors or in provided storage closets.
Exterior Lighting
Outdoor lighting from all dwellings, except landscape and safety essential lighting, shall be turned off between 11 p.m. - 7 a.m. daily. From May 15 - Oct. 31, outdoor lighting facing seaward in beach front units must be turned off from 9 p.m. - 8 a.m.
Due to the progress made with the COVID -19 pandemic recovery, the Town will no longer continue to update statistics on this page. However, it will remain active for the ease of access to resources.
All South Carolinians Aged 12 and Older are Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccine
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has announced that all versions of the COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Any South Carolina resident aged 12 or older can schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. See detailed information below:
- The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines require two shots, 21- and 28-days apart respectively. Don’t leave your first appointment without knowing when and where you’ll get your second shot.
- The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine requires a single shot.
- The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is approved for those 12 and older. Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines are approved for 18 and up.
Find a vaccine provider near you here.
Town Council Rescinds Ordinance Restrictions & Protocols Regarding COVID-19
On May 12, 2021, Town Council discussed Governor McMaster’s recent Executive Order and ultimately rescinded both ordinances that placed emergency restrictions regarding COVID-19 within the Town of Kiawah Island. Watch the meeting here.
This action brings the Town in alignment with the Governor’s Executive Order that withdrew face-covering requirements for State Government Agencies and revoked any counties, municipalities, or other political subdivisions from continuing to require face-coverings within their jurisdiction. However, the Governor’s Order explicitly allows private entities and businesses to adopt face-covering requirements for their establishments.
Effective immediately, the Town mandated requirements for face-coverings, essential businesses, and restaurant protocols regarding spacing between diners or congregating in bar areas has expired.
The Town strongly encourages the public to continue to wear face-coverings in public places where social distancing is difficult and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves until the threat of COVID-19 subsides or until they have obtained their vaccinations. The Town also encourages private entities and businesses to consider adopting a face-covering requirement for their establishment.
Any action by the Town to keep the face-covering requirement would be seen in conflict with the Governor’s authority, unable to enforce, and likely result in legal action.
Prevention Measures
- Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to help protect yourself and others.
- Stay 6 feet apart from others who don’t live with you.
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you.
- Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
- Wash your hands oftenwith soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
Medical Notice
Older adults who have underlying chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19 and should contact their healthcare provider early, even if they are experiencing mild symptoms.
If you develop any of the symptoms associated with the virus (fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell) or have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, call your primary care physician first or use these virtual care services:
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Use code COVID19 when you log in.
- Roper St. Francis Healthcare
- Fetter Health Care Network
Additional Contacts & Resources
- KICA Security 843-768-5566
- Beach Patrol 843-518-2880
- Violation 24-hr Hotline (Code Enforcement) 843-259-2137
- Charleston County Citizens Information Line 843-746-3900
- SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) Care Line 855-472-3432
- FEMA Coronavirus Rumor Control Website
- Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy 843-724-1212
- Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency 843-202-1700
- Smart911 Safety Profile
Vaccine Locator
DHEC Reporting Links
CDC
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