If you’re planning a vacation to Florida, it’s important to know which counties are open for vacation rentals. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some counties in Florida have restrictions on vacation rentals. In this article, we’ll take a look at which counties in Florida are open for vacation rentals and what you can expect when renting a vacation home.
Florida Vacation Rental Restrictions
In March 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order suspending short-term rental operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The order applied to all vacation rentals in Florida except those rented by essential lodgers. Essential lodgers include healthcare professionals, first responders, and other individuals providing direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In May 2020, Governor DeSantis issued another executive order lifting the ban on vacation rentals. However, individual counties were allowed to choose whether or not they wanted to opt-in or opt-out of the reopening plan. This means that each county has different rules and restrictions for vacation rentals.
Counties Open for Vacation Rentals
As of September 2021, all counties in Florida are open for vacation rentals. However, some counties may have additional restrictions in place that you should be aware of before booking your rental.
Here’s a list of counties that are currently open for vacation rentals:
- Alachua County
- Baker County
- Bay County
- Bradford County
- Brevard County
- Broward County
- Calhoun County
- Charlotte County
- Citrus County
- Clay County
- Collier County
- Columbia County
- DeSoto County
- Dixie County
- Duval County
- Escambia County
- Flagler County
- Franklin County
- Gadsden County
- Gilchrist County
- Glades County
- Gulf County
- Hamilton County
- Hardee County
- Hendry County
- Hernando County
- Highlands County
- Hillsborough County
- Holmes County
- Indian River County
- Jackson County
- Note: Jackson county requires a minimum rental period of 14 days.
- Jefferson County
- Note: Jefferson county requires a minimum rental period of 30 days.
- Lafayette county
- Note:Lafayette county requires a minimum rental period of 30 days.
Renting a Vacation Home in Florida
If you’re planning to rent a vacation home in Florida, it’s important to do your research. Make sure you understand the rules and regulations for vacation rentals in the county where you plan to stay. Some counties may require minimum rental periods, while others may have restrictions on the number of people who can stay in a vacation rental.
When booking your rental, be sure to read the rental agreement carefully. Understand the cancellation policy, cleaning fees, and any other charges that may apply.
Finally, be respectful of the community where you’re staying. Remember that you’re a guest in someone else’s neighborhood. Follow all local rules and regulations, and be mindful of noise levels and other disturbances.
In conclusion, all counties in Florida are currently open for vacation rentals. However, each county has its own rules and restrictions that you should be aware of before booking your rental.
Do your research, read the rental agreement carefully, and be respectful of the community where you’re staying. Have a great vacation!