Brunswick County, North Carolina: Short-Term Rental Permit (2025)

Overview: STR Permits in Brunswick County, North Carolina

Unincorporated Brunswick County currently does not require a formal STR permit for properties outside municipal boundaries. However, individual municipalities within the county — including Southport, Oak Island, and Holden Beach — may have their own registration requirements. Always verify your property's specific municipal jurisdiction.

As with all U.S. short-term rental markets, the most important first step is confirming your property's exact jurisdiction — whether it falls under city or unincorporated county authority — before applying for any permit. See our guide on City Limits vs. Unincorporated County for a step-by-step method.

Standard Application Requirements

Regardless of specific local variations, most STR permit applications in North Carolina require the following core documents:

• Proof of property ownership (deed or current tax records)
• Certificate of insurance listing the property for short-term rental use (typically minimum $300,000 liability)
• Maximum occupancy declaration
• Completed application form from the issuing office
• Application fee (verify current amount with the local office)

Some jurisdictions additionally require a floor plan, a parking plan, proof of primary residency (for owner-occupied permits), and a safety inspection. Use our free permit checklist to prepare all documents before submitting.

After Permit Issuance

Once your permit is issued, your permit number must appear in all platform listings. Keep your permit certificate accessible at the property. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before your permit's annual expiration to begin the renewal process — a lapsed permit has the same consequences as no permit.

Separately from your STR permit, register for applicable local lodging and occupancy taxes. These are distinct registrations with different offices. Verify whether your booking platform (Airbnb, VRBO) remits local taxes automatically in North Carolina.