Are Vacation Rentals Allowed in Sarasota County?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a vacation to Sarasota County, Florida, you may be wondering about the availability of vacation rentals. Vacation rentals have become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional hotels and resorts. However, regulations regarding vacation rentals can vary from place to place.

In Sarasota County, vacation rentals are allowed but there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed. Whether you’re a local looking to rent out your property or a visitor in search of a rental, it’s important to understand the guidelines set by the county.

What is a Vacation Rental

Before we dive into the specific regulations in Sarasota County, let’s define what exactly a vacation rental is. A vacation rental is typically a privately owned property that is rented out on a short-term basis to visitors. This can include homes, apartments, condos, and other types of dwellings.

Regulations for Vacation Rentals in Sarasota County

In Sarasota County, vacation rentals are governed by Chapter 54 of the county code. The regulations cover everything from licensing requirements to occupancy limits and noise restrictions.

Licensing Requirements

One of the most important things to note about vacation rentals in Sarasota County is that they must be licensed. This applies to both owners who rent out their properties and property managers who handle bookings for multiple owners.

To obtain a license, owners or property managers must submit an application and pay an annual fee. The license must be renewed each year and failure to do so can result in fines or legal action.

Occupancy Limits

Another key regulation for vacation rentals in Sarasota County is occupancy limits. The maximum number of guests allowed in a rental unit is determined by the size of the unit and its location within the county.

For example, a one-bedroom unit can have no more than four guests, while a two-bedroom unit can have no more than six guests. If the rental unit is located in a single-family residential area, the occupancy limit is further restricted to two people per bedroom plus two additional guests.

Noise Restrictions

Vacation rentals in Sarasota County are also subject to noise restrictions. Loud music or excessive noise that disturbs neighbors is prohibited between the hours of 10pm and 7am.

If a neighbor complains about noise from a vacation rental, the owner or property manager may be fined and even have their license revoked if the issue persists.

Conclusion

In summary, vacation rentals are allowed in Sarasota County but there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed. Owners and property managers must obtain a license, adhere to occupancy limits, and ensure that noise levels do not disturb neighbors.

As a visitor looking for a vacation rental in Sarasota County, it’s important to choose a licensed property to ensure that you’re staying in compliance with local regulations. By following these guidelines, everyone can enjoy the benefits of vacation rentals in beautiful Sarasota County.

  • Key Takeaways:
  • – Vacation rentals are allowed in Sarasota County.
  • – Owners and property managers must obtain a license.
  • – Occupancy limits vary based on unit size and location.
  • – Noise restrictions prohibit loud music between 10pm-7am.