Registration Rules: Sarasota vs Venice
How do registration rules rules compare between Sarasota, FL and Venice, FL?
Venice has fewer restrictions than Sarasota.
Sarasota, FL
Sarasota County
City of Sarasota Code Chapter 34.5 (Vacation Rentals) requires a Certificate of Registration for any short-term rental of single-family, duplex, triplex, or quadplex properties in Residential Single-Family (RSF) and Residential Multi-Family (RMF) zones. As of January 1, 2025, operating without an issued and inspected certificate is illegal.
View full Sarasota rules →Venice, FL
Sarasota County
All short-term rental properties in Venice must register through the City's Business Tax Receipt process with the Planning and Zoning Department. Florida Statute 509.032(7)(b) authorizes local registration even though it preempts outright bans.
View full Venice rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Sarasota | Venice |
|---|---|---|
| Code Chapter | Ch. 34.5 (Vacation Rentals) | - |
| Applies To | 1-4 family in RSF, RMF zones | - |
| Exempt | Condos, coops, owner-occupied STRs | - |
| Effective Date | Jan 1, 2025 (enforcement) | - |
| Renewal | Annual | Annual |
| Contact | (941) 263-6623 | - |
| Permit Type | - | City Business Tax Receipt |
| Required Info | - | Address, 24/7 contact, max occupancy, parking |
| Authority | - | Fla. Stat. 509.032(7)(b) |
| City Contact | - | 941-882-7446 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Sarasota FAQ
Do I need to register my Sarasota Airbnb?
Yes, if it's a single-family, duplex, triplex, or quadplex in an RSF or RMF zone, and it's not owner-occupied. Apply through the City Development Services Department and pass an inspection before listing.
Are condos exempt from Sarasota's STR registration?
Yes - Ch. 34.5 does not apply to condominium or cooperative units, or to owner-occupied short-term rentals.
Venice FAQ
Does Venice require local STR registration?
Yes. Even though Florida preempts most local STR rules, Venice requires a BTR with 24/7 local contact information. Operating without one is a Code violation.
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