(Airbnb) Short-Term Rental Regulation Pensacola, FL

How does Pensacola, FL define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?

• Any overnight rental that is occupied for six months or less.
• This includes both individually and collectively owned dwellings that are utilized as transient public lodging establishments.

Please note that in the following context “Short-term Rental” and “Vacation Rental” are synonymous. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

Can an investor own more than one vacation rental property in Pensacola, FL? 

Yes, investors in Pensacola, FL can own more than one vacation rental property. There is no specific restriction on the number of vacation rental properties an investor can own in the area.

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

Does Pensacola, FL have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, Pensacola, FL has zoning restrictions for short-term (Airbnb) rentals (STRs). The following regulations apply:

• STR sites should be located along or at a collector or arterial roadway within a half-mile of that roadway to discourage traffic on local residential streets. The minimum lot size required is 15,000 square feet.
• Interior displays visible from the exterior should be in harmony with the character of the surrounding area.
• The proposed STR facility must comply with the relevant regulations of the state division of hotels and restaurants as outlined in the Florida Administrative Code.
• The operation of the STR should not generate excessive noise, traffic, congestion, or other potential nuisances or hazards to neighboring residential properties.

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

In Pensacola, FL can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity? 

Yes, in Pensacola, FL, an investor can own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity. There are no specific restrictions that prevent investors from utilizing a business entity, such as a corporation or limited liability company (LLC), to own and manage their Airbnb property. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

In Pensacola, FL, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals?

Yes, in Pensacola, FL, investors can register accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals, subject to compliance with local regulations and licensing requirements. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

What is Pensacola, FL requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Pensacola, FL, applicants must:

• Register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
• Ensure compliance with zoning and licensing requirements.
• Provide necessary documentation.
• Pay applicable fees.
• Undergo inspections to verify compliance with regulations.

Source: Florida DBPR Hotels and Restaurant Division

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Pensacola, FL?

The costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Pensacola, FL are as follows:

• Application fee: $50 (non-refundable) for new vacation rental owners or changing the owner.
• License fee: The fee depends on the duration and number of rental units. For a half-year license, the fee starts at $90 for a single rental unit. For a full-year license, the fee starts at $170. Additional rental units may receive built-in discounts on the fees.

Source: Florida DBPR Hotels and Restaurant Division

Does Pensacola, FL have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

Yes, Pensacola, FL does have Vacation Rental occupancy limits. According to the regulations, the maximum occupancy is determined by allowing two individuals per bedroom, along with an additional two individuals per property. This results in a total occupancy limit of up to twelve people per property, excluding children under the age of six.

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

Does Pensacola, FL require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?

No, investors do not typically require an inspection to obtain a Short-Term Rental (STR) license for vacation rentals. Unlike hotels and restaurants, there is no opening inspection requirement. However, a Certificate of Balcony Inspection is necessary for railings, stairwells, and balconies that are not common to the entire building. This certificate must be filed every three years in accordance with the safety regulations of the Division of Hotels and Restaurants.

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

Does Pensacola, FL have any responsible agent requirements?

Yes, there are specific responsible agent requirements for vacation rentals. These requirements state that a licensed agent, who operates a management company, must be authorized or “licensed” by the property or unit owner to handle transient rentals. This authorization is typically established through a rental agreement or contract between the agent and the owner. According to Florida law, the Division is responsible for issuing group licenses and collective licenses for vacation rentals specifically to licensed agents. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

Does Pensacola, FL have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

Yes, Pensacola, FL has specific insurance requirements for vacation rentals. It is crucial for vacation rental owners to have a specialized form of insurance known as Vacation Rental Insurance or Landlord Protection Insurance. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Pensacola, FLVacation Rental license?

The duration of a Vacation Rental license in Pensacola, FL is typically one year. Upon expiration, the license must be renewed to continue operating the vacation rental. 

Source: Escambia County Ordinance

In Pensacola, FL, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Pensacola, FL?

No, in Pensacola, FL, Airbnb and VRBO platforms do not typically remit taxes on behalf of the hosts. Hosts are responsible for tracking and collecting applicable taxes directly from guests and remitting them to the proper taxing authorities. The Tourist Development Tax (TDT) of up to 6% is authorized by Florida Statutes, and hosts must collect and ensure the applicable taxes are remitted to the proper taxing authority. Additionally, Escambia County Ordinances establish a levy of 4% on Airbnb rental income, and hosts are required to register their property with the Escambia County Clerk of Courts Finance Department, collect the tax monthly, and submit a completed TDT return. 

Souce: Escambia County Clerk & Comptroller

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Pensacola, FL  Vacation Rentals?

Pensacola City Hall: 850-436-5555

Escambia County Clerk of Courts Finance Department: (850) 595-4310

Are there any new laws and regulations that the city is requiring?

Currently, there are no new laws and regulations being required by the city of Pensacola regarding Airbnb and short-term rentals. However, recent discussions among city council members have taken place in response to neighbor complaints. These concerns primarily involve issues such as noise disturbances, excessive trash accumulation, and the use of yards as parking spaces. While no new regulations have been implemented at this time, the city is actively considering and addressing these matters to ensure a harmonious coexistence between Airbnb rental properties and the surrounding neighborhoods. So, please stay tuned!

Source: WKRG News