Has the Vacation Rental Ban Been Lifted in Florida?

By Robert Palmer

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of confusion and uncertainty regarding travel restrictions, especially for those looking to rent vacation homes in Florida. Many people have been wondering whether the vacation rental ban has been lifted in the state. In this article, we will explore the current situation and provide you with up-to-date information on vacation rentals in Florida.

Background

On March 27, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order suspending short-term vacation rentals throughout the state. The order was put in place to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health. The order affected all types of vacation rentals, including hotels, motels, and private homes.

Updates

Since then, there have been several updates regarding the vacation rental ban in Florida. On May 15, 2020, Governor DeSantis announced that he was lifting restrictions on vacation rentals for counties that had submitted safety plans and had low numbers of COVID-19 cases.

However, on June 26, 2020, Governor DeSantis signed an executive order suspending all vacation rental operations across the state due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. The order required all vacation rental owners to stop taking reservations and cancel existing bookings until further notice.

Current Situation

As of September 2021, Governor DeSantis has not issued any new executive orders related to the suspension of short-term vacation rentals in Florida. This means that vacation rental operations have resumed across the state.

However, it’s important to note that individual counties may still have their own restrictions and guidelines for vacation rentals. It’s important to check with each county before planning your trip.

Safety Protocols

Even though short-term rentals are allowed again in Florida, it’s still important to follow safety protocols recommended by health officials. This includes wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands frequently. Many vacation rental owners have also implemented additional cleaning and disinfecting procedures to ensure the safety of their guests.

Conclusion

In summary, the vacation rental ban in Florida was lifted on May 15, 2020, but was reinstated on June 26, 2020. As of September 2021, the ban has not been reinstated again.

However, it’s important to check with individual counties for any restrictions or guidelines before booking your vacation rental. Remember to follow safety protocols recommended by health officials to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.