Pasco County, FL Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

Pasco County regulates short-term vacation rental occupancy through its vacation rental ordinance operating within the preemption framework of Florida Statute §509.032(7)(b). The state law bars counties from prohibiting STRs or regulating their duration/frequency more restrictively than other residential uses, but expressly permits local occupancy limits provided they apply uniformly to all residential properties (not singling out STRs). Pasco's standard occupancy cap is typically 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional (a 3-bedroom home = 8 occupants), consistent with Florida Building Code and DBPR DH-4007 vacation rental licensing standards. Listings must accurately state maximum occupancy, and operators are responsible for enforcing limits. Sleeping in non-habitable spaces (garages, RVs, tents, vehicles on the property) is prohibited. Violations can result in code enforcement citation, DBPR complaint review, and potential local permit/registration suspension. Pasco STR operators must also collect 6% county tourist development tax per F.S. §125.0104 and 6% Florida transient rental tax. 2024 Florida SB 280 amendments allow local registration programs so long as they meet statutory parameters.