Airbnb Rental Laws and Regulations Sarasota, FL

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

• Any residential unit rented to guests for a short-term duration that’s zoned as “single-family zone districts.”
• A transient public lodging establishment that is rented for a minimum of seven full days and seven full nights with a maximum of 30 days. 

Please note that in this text we use the phrases “short-term (Airbnb) rental” and “vacation rental” interchangeably. 

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Sarasota, FL? 

Yes, investors in Sarasota, Florida, have the flexibility to own multiple vacation rental properties. There are typically no specific restrictions on the number of vacation rental properties an investor can own and operate within the city.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

Does Sarasota, FL have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, Sarasota, Florida, typically has zoning restrictions for Airbnb Rentals (STRs). The zoning regulations are specified in Article VI, Division 3 of the City of Sarasota Zoning Code. In these regulations, certain residential multiple-family zone districts are identified, and the primary principal use in these districts is “household living.” This implies that the zoning code may have specific requirements and restrictions related to the operation of Short-Term Rentals (STRs) within these zone districts. 

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

Yes, investors in Sarasota, FL, can own and operate their Airbnb properties as business entities, provided they adhere to local regulations and licensing requirements.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

Yes, investors in Sarasota, FL, can typically register accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals, subject to compliance with local regulations and permitting requirements. Property owners should ensure they meet the specific criteria outlined by the city for these types of properties.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Sarasota, FL, property owners typically need to complete a registration checklist that includes the following requirements:

• Completed application
• Proof of ownership (copy of deed or tax bill)
• Copy of receipt for registration fee
• Owner Acknowledgment form signed
• Designation of Responsible Party completed and signed form
• Authorized Representative Form signed by the owner authorizing a representative to act on their behalf (if applicable)
• A copy of the City of Sarasota Local Business Tax Receipt
• A copy of the Sarasota County business tax receipt
• A copy of the Sarasota County tourist tax receipt
• A current and active license for a Transient Public Lodging Establishment from the Florida DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation)
• A current and active certificate of registration with the Florida Department of Revenue
• An exterior site sketch
• An interior building sketch
• A blank sample of the standard rental lease agreement
• Any pre-existing rental agreements
• Inspection checklist
• Check for unpaid penalties or unsatisfied liens

Source: Vacation Rental Registration Guidance

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

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

APPLICATION:

• Application Fee for an initial certificate of registration: $250.00
• Application Fee for a renewed certificate of registration: $150.00
• Late Fee for an untimely submitted application for an initial certificate of registration or a renewed certificate of registration: $100.00
• Application Fee for an amended certificate of registration: $100.00

INSPECTIONS:

• Initial inspection: included in the application
• First Re-Inspection Fee: $50.00
• Second and Third Re-Inspection Fee: $100.00 per inspection
• Inspection Fee upon change of ownership: $100.00

Source: Vacation Rental Registration Guidance

Does Sarasota, FL have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

Sarasota, FL, imposes varying maximum occupancy limits on Vacation Rentals based on their existing lawful use. Vacation rentals in operation as of May 4, 2021, temporarily have a maximum occupancy cap of sixteen (16) guests, which reduces to fourteen (14) guests from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. After December 31, 2024, all vacation rentals must adhere to standard maximum occupancy limits. Exceptions apply in cases of repeated violations or property transfers.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

Sarasota, FL, requires inspections for Vacation Rental licenses. Upon application for an initial certificate of registration, an inspection is conducted to ensure compliance with safety and informational requirements, as well as adherence to local ordinances, including zoning codes. Subsequent inspections may be required as specified in the city’s regulations. Noncompliance must be corrected within thirty (30) days of written notice. If access is denied or multiple inspection attempts fail, a notice of inability to conduct an inspection is issued, potentially resulting in a violation and enforcement actions.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

Does Sarasota, FL have any responsible agent requirements?

Yes, Sarasota, FL, requires the designation of a responsible party for Vacation Rentals. The owner or authorized representative must complete a “Designation of Responsible Party” form provided by the city. This form names a single designated responsible party or up to two designated responsible parties who have specific duties outlined in section 34.5-15 of the regulations. Property owners can appoint themselves or someone else, including a private property management company, as the designated responsible party or parties for the vacation rental.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

Sarasota, FL, does not have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental. However, property owners or operators are advised to have appropriate liability insurance coverage to protect themselves and guests. While there are no specific mandated insurance amounts, it’s essential to have insurance coverage that adequately addresses potential liabilities associated with vacation rental activities.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

Vacation Rental licenses in Sarasota, FL must be renewed before December 31 of every odd-numbered year, with renewal applications accepted between August 1 and October 1. Starting in 2024, renewed certificates are valid for two calendar years until December 31 of the following odd-numbered year. They remain valid until their expiration date, unless amended or suspended as per city regulations.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

In Sarasota, 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 Sarasota, FL?

Yes, both Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on behalf of hosts in Sarasota, FL. Hosts are required to collect and remit the transient occupancy tax, which is 5% of the total rental amount, directly to the city. Additionally, hosts must also pay the Florida state sales tax on short-term (Airbnb) rentals and any applicable local tourist development taxes. It’s essential for hosts to stay compliant with tax regulations and ensure accurate tax collection and remittance.

Source: Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance

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

City of Sarasota Planning and Development Services Department: (941) 263-6447 or  planninginfo@sarasotaFL.gov

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

No, there are no new regulations or laws being required by Sarasota, FL, at the time this information was compiled by Get Chalet.