The City of Pooler has adopted a new Short-Term Rental Ordinance, effective March 18, 2025, to regulate residential properties used as short-term rentals. The goal of this ordinance is to protect public health, safety, and the overall well-being of the community by ensuring that all short-term rental operations adhere to the city’s zoning, safety, and tax regulations.
Important Dates for Compliance
Application forms for short-term rental permits will be available online and at City Hall on March 18, 2025. Owners who have been operating short-term rentals without a business license must submit proof of past operations and comply with the new rules by June 16, 2025 (within 90 days of the ordinance’s effective date). Owners renewing their business license will need to meet the new ordinance requirements when filing for their annual renewal by December 1st each year.
Business License and Short-Term Rental Certificate
To operate a short-term rental in Pooler, owners must obtain both a business license and a short-term rental certificate. Certificates are non-transferable and can only be used by the entity to whom they are issued. They are valid until December 31st each year. Short-term rental certificates will not be issued for properties located within 500 feet of another licensed short-term rental.
Existing Short-Term Rentals
Those currently operating short-term rentals with a valid business license must comply with the new ordinance, including the distance requirement from other licensed rentals. Operators without a license must submit proof of prior operations and comply with the new rules within 90 days or face violations.
What You Need to Do
If you are operating a short-term rental in Pooler or plan to do so, be sure to apply for the required business license and short-term rental certificate by the appropriate deadlines. Stay updated on new forms and processes as they become available, and ensure full compliance with the new ordinance to avoid penalties.
For more details, please refer to the City of Pooler’s Business Registration page or contact the City’s Business Licensing department at (912) 748-7261.