Development News for Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Task Force Explores STR Regulations for Forest Beach and Jonesville Road

The Land Management Ordinance Task Force discussed potential amendments to land use regulations concerning short-term rentals (STRs) in specific residential areas. The discussion focused on the impacts of STRs on neighborhood character, development intensity, and land use compatibility, particularly in the RSF 5 zoning district (North and South Forest Beach) and the RM4 zoning district (Jonesville Road). While operational regulations for STRs are already extensive, the task force considered whether additional land management ordinance (LMO) considerations are warranted. Two primary areas of focus were the landward side of Forest Beach Drive and the Jonesville Road neighborhood. For Forest Beach, the discussion involved potential adjustments to mass and scale through overlay districts and floor area ratio exemptions. For Jonesville Road, the focus was on whether STRs should be restricted or prohibited in single-family residential areas, considering its existing character and developing subdivisions. The task force conducted polling on preferences for each area, with a strong leaning towards additional design and development standards for Forest Beach and a mixed response for Jonesville Road, including preferences for elimination, capping, or design standards.