Are you planning a vacation to Florida and wondering if it’s still possible to rent a vacation rental during these uncertain times? Well, the short answer is yes. But, there are some things you need to keep in mind before booking your stay.
The Current Situation
Florida has been open for vacation rentals since June 2020 after being closed for several months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are still some restrictions in place that you need to be aware of before making any bookings.
Travel Restrictions
Florida has no travel restrictions in place, which means anyone can travel to the state without having to quarantine on arrival. However, it’s important to check with your home state’s travel restrictions and quarantine requirements upon returning from your trip.
Vacation Rental Restrictions
Vacation rentals are allowed in Florida but with some restrictions. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation has issued guidelines that all rental properties must follow. These guidelines include:
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Vacation rental properties must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between guests. This includes all high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and remote controls.
Social Distancing
Guests should practice social distancing when using common areas like pools or gyms. The guidelines recommend limiting the number of people in these areas at one time.
Face Masks
While face masks are not required inside vacation rental properties, they are recommended when social distancing is not possible.
Local Restrictions
In addition to statewide guidelines, some local governments may have their own regulations in place. For example, Miami-Dade County currently has a curfew from midnight until 6 am and requires everyone over the age of 2 to wear a face mask while in public.
Booking Your Vacation Rental
Now that you know the restrictions in place, it’s time to book your vacation rental. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Book with a reputable vacation rental company that follows the state guidelines.
- Check the cancellation policy before booking in case there’s a change in travel restrictions or guidelines.
- Ask about the cleaning and disinfecting procedures to ensure your safety.
- Consider booking a property with private amenities like a pool or beach access to limit exposure to other guests.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can still rent a vacation rental in Florida right now. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines in place that you need to be aware of before making any bookings. As long as you follow these guidelines and take necessary precautions, you can still enjoy a relaxing and safe vacation in the Sunshine State.