Jacksonville, FL Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Per Bedroom
- 2 persons per bedroom + 2 additional
- Maximum Total
- 16 individuals per unit
- Age Threshold
- Only persons over 24 months counted
- Certificate Required
- Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate
- Enforcement
- Planning and Development Department
Summary
Jacksonville imposes occupancy limits on short-term vacation rentals. Maximum occupancy is two persons per bedroom plus two additional occupants, with a cap of 16 total individuals per unit. Only persons over the age of 24 months are counted toward the maximum. These limits are part of the Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate requirements enforced by the Planning and Development Department.
PREEMPTION AUTHORITY. — (a) The regulation of public lodging establishments and public food service establishments, including, but not limited to, sanitation standards, inspections, training and testing of personnel, and matters related to the nutritional content and marketing of foods offered in such establishments, is preempted to the state. This paragraph does not preempt the authority of a local government or local enforcement district to c
Full Breakdown
Jacksonville's short-term rental occupancy regulations limit the number of overnight guests to prevent overcrowding and neighborhood disruption. The standard formula allows 2 guests per legal bedroom plus 2 additional guests, subject to a maximum cap that varies by property size and zoning district. Studio and one-bedroom units are typically limited to 4 guests. Properties advertising "party house" rentals or exceeding posted occupancy face accelerated enforcement. Daytime visitor limits may also apply, typically capped at 1.5 times the overnight maximum. Hosts must post maximum occupancy prominently inside the rental and on all listings. The occupancy count includes all persons regardless of age.
Violations & Fines
First occupancy violation results in a $500 fine. Second violation within 12 months: $1,000 fine. Third violation: permit revocation hearing. Unauthorized events or parties carry immediate $1,500 fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is occupancy calculated for a 3-bedroom STR?
What happens if an STR exceeds occupancy limits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jacksonville
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Jacksonville to another location·View the Florida short-term rentals overview
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