Florida's Holiday Rental Regulations in 2024: What Hosts Need to Know

 

This article was written in April 2024 and includes current updates. We will make sure to keep on updating this post to make sure it’s relevant, but if you’re a Florida host, make sure to check the official sources.


The Florida legislature recently passed Senate Bill 280, which is currently awaiting review and potential signing by Governor Ron DeSantis. If signed into law, this bill would introduce new regulations for vacation rentals (Airbnbs) across the state. Some of the key changes proposed in the bill include:


  • Statewide registry for all vacation rental hosts

  • Potential requirement for rental inspections to obtain permits

  • Ability for local governments to impose additional restrictions and fees on vacation rentals


While the bill aims to standardize regulations across Florida, it has faced significant pushback from local residents who are concerned about the impact of vacation rentals on their communities. Residents in areas like Vilano Beach have urged Governor DeSantis to veto the bill, citing issues like excessive noise, parking, and trash from disruptive vacation renters.


What This Means for Hosts


If the bill is signed into law, vacation rental hosts across Florida will need to closely monitor the changes and take action to ensure compliance. Some key steps hosts should be prepared to take include:

  • Registering their properties with the new statewide registry, once established

  • Obtaining any required permits or licenses from local governments, which may include inspections

  • Adhering to new occupancy limits, noise ordinances, and other restrictions imposed by state or local authorities

  • Collecting and remitting any additional taxes or fees levied on  vacation rentals


Hosts should also stay up-to-date on any new legislation or proposals that could further impact the vacation rental landscape in Florida. Proactively engaging with local officials and community groups may also help hosts navigate the evolving regulatory environment.


Timing and Next Steps


The fate of Senate Bill 280 currently rests in Governor DeSantis' hands. If signed into law, the new regulations would likely take effect within the next 6-12 months, giving hosts time to prepare. In the meantime, vacation rental hosts in Florida should:


    • Thoroughly research the current laws and regulations in their specific city and county

    • Ensure they are properly licensed, permitted, and compliant with all existing requirements

    • Consider using a vacation rental management platform that can help automate compliance tasks

    • Stay informed on legislative developments and be ready to adapt to any changes


FAQ:


What are the key provisions of Senate Bill 280


The key provisions of Florida's Senate Bill 280 include:

  1. Requiring a statewide registry for all vacation rental properties in Florida.

  2. Potentially requiring rental inspections and permits for vacation rental hosts to operate.

  3. Allowing local governments to impose additional restrictions and fees on vacation rentals in their jurisdictions.

  4. Requiring advertising platforms (e.g. Airbnb, VRBO) to collect and remit specified taxes for vacation rental transactions.

  5. Authorizing the state to revoke, refuse to issue or renew, or suspend vacation rental licenses under certain circumstances.


What is the purpose of Senate Bill 280


In summary, the purpose of Florida's Senate Bill 280 is to establish a statewide regulatory framework for vacation rentals, giving local governments more control over these operations in their communities.


What is the timeline for Senate Bill 280 to become law


The timeline for Senate Bill 280 to potentially become law is dependent on Governor DeSantis' review and decision, but if signed, the new regulations would likely take effect within 6-12 months to give hosts time to prepare.

What is the process for the governor to sign or veto a bill in Florida


The Governor has the power to sign bills into law, veto them, or allow them to become law without their signature, with the legislature able to override a veto with a two-thirds majority vote.


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