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Short-Term Rentals

Port St. Lucie's Short-Term Rentals: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles short-term rentals a little differently. In Port St. Lucie, Florida, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Occupancy Limits

Port St. Lucie does set maximum occupancy for every residential district in section 158.082, based on floor area, bedroom size and toilets. But subsection (E) exempts guests staying fourteen calendar days or less, which covers most short-term rental stays.

Key details: Code Section: § 158.082. Floor Area: 300 sq ft for first occupant. Each Added Occupant: 150 sq ft. Toilets: Four occupants per sanitary toilet. Guest Exemption: Stays of 14 days or less.

Zoning violations are cited by code compliance and heard by the special magistrate, who may impose up to $1,000.00 per day for a first violation and $5,000.00 per day for a repeat violation.

Port St. Lucie is more permissive than most cities when it comes to occupancy limits. That said, there are still limits.

Short-Term Rental Permits

The Port St. Lucie code creates no short-term-rental permit or registration. What it does require is a City business tax receipt under Chapter 111 before you operate, plus proof of any active state license.

Key details: City STR Permit: None created by the code. Required: Business tax receipt, Chapter 111. Application Fee: $19.00, halved after new business class. Renewal: Payable by September 30. Penalty: Up to $250.00 plus 25 percent.

Operating without a receipt violates Sec. 111.21, which also catches the landlord who allows it, and carries court costs, attorneys fees and a penalty of up to $250.00, plus a 25 percent penalty on the tax due under Sec. 111.22(c).

The Bottom Line

Port St. Lucie's short-term rentals rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Port St. Lucie is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Port St. Lucie's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.