Good Neighbor Policy
In 1897, the first home was built on the Isle of Palms. It was a summer vacation home. The secret would soon get out and in 1902 the 50-room Hotel Seashore opened. Tourism flourished and in 1912, a beach pavilion and amusement park were constructed. In these early days, the Isle of Palms was referred to as the "Coney Island of the South". For the past century, tourism has been the catalyst for the economic development of the Isle of Palms.
Today tourism remains a large part of life on the island and a major part or our economy. Vacation families arrive for the myriad of activities and attractions of not only the Isle of Palms, but of Charleston, which is largely considered one of the best cities in the world for tourism. Whether it be to enjoy a day of relaxing on the wide beaches of the island, a stroll on the historic Charleston Battery, or dinner overlooking the shrimping fleet on Shem Creek, anyone who is blessed enough to live here understands the lure of the Isle of Palms.
At Lowcountry Vacation Properties, we are fortunate to have lived our lives for the past 30 years in the shadow of such majestic beauty. It is the wish of our team and the Lowcountry Vacation Properties homeowner partners to allow visitors the opportunity to experience a taste of what it’s like to live in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.
At Lowcountry Vacation Properties, it is our sincere intention to be good neighbors to the residents of the community we serve. We believe that it is critical to maintain proactive relationships with the city, local businesses, and our neighbors.
As a professional and licensed property manager, it is Lowcountry Vacation's goal to eliminate any issue before it happens. Not only is it a requirement for the guest to sign the City of Isle of Palms Short-Term Rental Regulations prior to confirmation, the rules are the island are personally explained to the guest prior to arrival by our team. We are available seven days a week and have staff on call after hours available to assist both our visitors as well as our neighbors. Today, there are more full-time residents on the Isle of Palms than at any other point in history. Therefore, it is essential that resident and vacationer adhere to a good neighbor policy so that this beautiful island can maintain its tranquility into the future.
What it means to be a good neighbor:
Noise
Noise from neighboring properties is one of the most common issues reported to the police. Unreasonable noise is defined as noise that unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of a home. The Isle of Palms establishes (Sec. 9-2-5) quiet hours Sunday through Thursday from 10 PM to 10 AM as well as Friday and Saturday from 11 PM to 10 AM. The city does enforce a policy against unreasonable noise 24 hours a day. If a neighbor ever witnesses a problem with noise, they may contact us 7 days a week and 24-hours a day. We urge concerned neighbors to get in touch with us as soon as possible.
Occupancy
The City of Isle of Palms has established occupancy requirements for every vacation home. Occupancy is defined in Sec. 5-4-202 at two people per bedroom, plus two people or a maximum occupancy of twelve people in all properties licensed after 6/22/10. Lowcountry Vacation Properties is absolutely committed to prevent overcrowding in a vacation home. When guests exceed a home’s occupancy, the potential for excessive wear and tear and damage is enhanced, as well as the potential for noise disturbances. Our vacation rentals occupancy regulations are clearly stated on every listing. In addition, overcrowding is monitored by our in-house check in process and weekly trash and towel service. Guests must abide by City of Isle of Palms regulations regarding occupancy or face eviction.
Parking
The maximum number of vehicles is limited to one per approved bedroom or one vehicle for every two and half people by the City of Isle of Palms, Sec. 9-4-204. When reservations are taken over the phone, parking allotment is clearly disclosed. “Drive By” inspections of parking are routinely conducted during the guest stay to ensure there is not an issue.
Trash
Lowcountry Vacation Properties employs a local business that offers trash valet services. Guests are instructed not to move trash or recycle cans. The City Of Isle Palms addresses trash in Sec. 3-2-8, which defines the procedure for trash collection. By using a local business, trash removal is never an issue.
Minimum Rental Periods
Family vacation homes on the Isle of Palms are not hotels. Lowcountry Vacation Properties does not accept any reservations less than 3-nights and 7-nights during summer and holiday seasons. We do not allow weekend parties, weddings and bachelor and bachelorette parties are prohibited. Most of our visitors are families and friends.
For over a century, visitors to the Isle of Palms have been able to coexist with residents. It is imperative that homeowners have the right to rent their property long-term or short-term as they see fit if they don’t create a nuisance to the neighborhood. If there are repeated violations in a vacation home, the City of Isle of Palms in Sec. 9-2-5 (I) may suspend or revoke the business license to operate. At Lowcountry Vacation Properties, we are always quick to react to any questions or concerns and will continue to do whatever we can to ensure the peaceful co-existence of short-term rentals and homeowners in our neighborhoods.