Florida Permit Requirements Law: Statewide Short-Term Rentals Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Fla. Stat. 509.032(7)
Licensing Body: DBPR Hotels & Restaurants
Grandfather Date: June 1, 2011
License Required: Rentals under 30 days

Full Breakdown

Section 509.032(7), Florida Statutes, provides that the regulation of public lodging establishments (including vacation rentals) and public food service establishments is preempted to the state. Local laws adopted on or before June 1, 2011 are grandfathered, but new ordinances cannot prohibit vacation rentals or regulate the duration or frequency of rental of vacation rentals. Operators must obtain a DBPR vacation rental license (collective, group, or single license) before renting more than three times per year for periods less than 30 days.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without a DBPR vacation rental license is a misdemeanor and subjects the operator to fines, license denial, and cease-and-desist orders from DBPR.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Florida city ban short-term rentals outright?

No. Section 509.032(7)(b) prohibits local laws from banning vacation rentals or regulating their duration or frequency, unless the ordinance was adopted on or before June 1, 2011.

Do I still need a state license if my city already requires registration?

Yes. The DBPR vacation rental license is required statewide regardless of any local registration program, and both may apply concurrently.

Florida State Vacation Rental Licensing Preemption

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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