Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and warm weather, making it a popular vacation destination for people all around the world. However, in recent years, there have been some restrictions placed on vacation rentals in the state. Many visitors and property owners are wondering what these restrictions are and how they may affect their plans.
What Are Vacation Rentals?
Before we dive into the restrictions on vacation rentals in Florida, let’s first define what they are. Vacation rentals are properties that are rented out to visitors for short-term stays.
These can be apartments, houses, or condos that are fully furnished and equipped with amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities. The popularity of vacation rentals has grown over the years as an alternative to hotels for travelers who want more space and privacy.
What Are the Restrictions?
In June 2019, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law that restricted local governments’ ability to regulate vacation rental properties. The bill gave the state control over regulating vacation rentals instead of allowing each city or county to create their own rules.
Under this new law, local governments cannot ban vacation rentals outright but can regulate them in other ways. For example, they can require owners to obtain special licenses or permits before renting out their properties or limit the number of guests allowed to stay in a rental at once.
Additionally, some cities have created their own restrictions on vacation rentals before this new law was passed. For example, Miami Beach banned short-term rentals in most residential areas in 2018.
How Do These Restrictions Affect Visitors?
For visitors who plan on staying in a vacation rental during their trip to Florida, these restrictions may not affect them directly. However, it’s important for travelers to be aware of any regulations that may affect their stay before booking a rental property.
If a property owner is required to obtain a license or permit before renting out their property, it may take longer to book a rental or result in higher prices for the rental. Additionally, if a local government has restrictions on the number of guests allowed in a rental at once, it may not be suitable for larger groups.
Conclusion
While there are some restrictions on vacation rentals in Florida, visitors can still find plenty of options for their stay. It’s important to research any regulations that may affect your stay before booking a rental property. With the right planning and preparation, travelers can still enjoy all that Florida has to offer while staying in a comfortable and convenient vacation rental.