State-Level Rules
Under Chapter 509, properties rented to transient guests on a recurring basis are public lodging establishments requiring DBPR licensing. The state preempts local outright bans and most duration or frequency restrictions for ordinances adopted after 2011, but local governments retain meaningful authority in other areas.
Tax Rules
Hosts collect state sales tax, applicable discretionary surtax, and county TDT on transient stays. Airbnb collects some of these for platform bookings, but coverage varies by county and does not eliminate filing or recordkeeping responsibility.
Local Ordinances and Permits
Cities can regulate noise, occupancy via building code, parking, trash, signage, and registration. Cities with grandfathered pre-2011 STR ordinances can apply additional restrictions including duration limits.
Operating Rules Hosts Should Follow
Common operating expectations include: a posted DBPR license number, a local responsible party available 24/7, smoke and CO detectors, fire extinguishers, posted occupancy and parking limits, trash schedule communication, and adherence to HOA or condo rules.
HOA, Condo, and Deed Restrictions
Private restrictions can override what state and city rules allow. Many condos prohibit rentals under 30 days. Many HOAs require pre-approval. Confirm before you list.
Requirements Vary by County and Municipality
Rules are highly local. Verify the city, the county, and the HOA for each property address.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Can cities ban Airbnbs in Florida?
Cities cannot generally enact new outright bans, but pre-2011 ordinances with bans are grandfathered. Cities can still regulate operations.
FAQ
Are there state-wide occupancy limits?
Florida law sets some baseline life-safety requirements; specific occupancy is often enforced through building code, local ordinance, or platform policy.
FAQ
Do I have to post my license number?
Many municipalities require permit or license numbers to appear on listings and inside the unit. Confirm with your city.
FAQ
Are 30-day rentals subject to STR rules?
Rentals of 30 days or longer are generally not transient. Six-month-plus rentals are typically exempt from lodging taxes.
FAQ
Where can I find rules for my address?
A Compliance Map walks through state, county, city, and HOA rules for a specific property.
Related Florida Host Desk Resources
Florida Vacation Rental License: DBPR Requirements
Read GuideFlorida Sales Tax Account for Vacation Rentals
Read GuideFlorida Airbnb Taxes: Sales Tax and TDT
Read GuideFlorida Vacation Rental Renewal Guide
Read GuideFlorida STR Compliance Checklist
Read GuideFlorida Vacation Rental Compliance by County
Read GuideFlorida Vacation Rental Compliance Calendar
Read GuideFlorida Host Desk provides administrative compliance support and organization. We are not a law firm, CPA firm, tax preparer, permit expediter, or property management company. This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Requirements vary by county and municipality.