Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Anna Maria, FL?

YES — Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Anna Maria, FL. The City of Anna Maria permits nightly vacation rentals, provided owners comply with registration requirements, pay applicable fees, maintain proper licensing, and pass required inspections. Vacation rentals must be registered as Transient Public Lodging Establishments (TPLE) and adhere to specific occupancy limits, safety requirements, and operational standards.

The city maintains a structured permitting system with annual renewal requirements, safety inspections, and compliance monitoring to ensure vacation rentals operate within established parameters while preserving the residential character of the community.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Anna Maria

Starting a short-term rental in Anna Maria requires a systematic approach involving multiple regulatory agencies and compliance steps. The process begins with securing the proper licensing at the state level, followed by local registration, inspection, and ongoing compliance management.

State-Level Requirements:

1. Obtain a Transient Public Lodging Establishment (TPLE) license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
2. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes
3. Establish an active account with the Manatee County Tax Collector

Local Requirements:

1. Complete the City of Anna Maria Vacation Rental Registration Forms (new or renewal)
2. Submit all required documentation and applicable fees
3. Provide exterior and interior property sketches
4. Schedule and pass mandatory annual inspection
5. Renew registration annually

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Documentation:

• Active TPLE license from Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
• Active registration certificate from Florida Department of Revenue
• Evidence of active account with Manatee County Tax Collector

Local Registration Requirements:

• Completed Vacation Rental Registration Forms (Forms 1, 2, and 3)
• Non-refundable registration fees
• Exterior site sketch showing structures, pools, spas, fencing, and parking spaces
• Interior building sketch by floor, highlighting bedrooms and exits
• Designation of responsible party
• Copy of rental agreement template
• Proof of ownership documentation

Safety and Compliance Documentation:

• Current certificate of registration
• Insurance documentation (if applicable)
• Fire extinguisher inspection records (2A:10B:C rating required)
• Pool/spa safety inspection certificates
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector compliance verification
• Emergency contact information postings

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Occupancy Limits (City of Anna Maria)

• Maximum occupancy is the lesser of:
  • Two persons per bedroom (100+ sq. ft.) plus one person per bedroom (70-100 sq. ft.) plus two additional persons
  • Total of eight occupants per vacation rental
  • For multiple buildings on one lot: eight occupants per lot or structure, whichever is less

Grandfathering Provisions: Vacation rentals operating before November 19, 2015, may apply for grandfathered status for five years, allowing occupancy based on historical usage. This status requires formal application and verification of bedroom count at the time of application.

Safety Requirements

• Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (Florida Building Code Sections R314 and R315)
• Portable, multi-purpose dry chemical 2A:10B:C fire extinguisher on each floor
• Emergency egress maintenance and lighting
• Local phone service capable of calling 911
• Pool/spa compliance with Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Chapter 515, F.S.)
• Pool drainage, lighting, and electrical system annual inspections by licensed technicians

Parking and Operational Requirements

• Off-street parking requirements as specified in city codes
• Noise ordinance compliance (quiet hours typically after 11:00 PM)
• Advertisement accuracy requirements (no advertising occupancy exceeding registered limits)
• Designated responsible party contact information posting

Zoning Considerations

Properties must comply with underlying zoning designations, with some areas potentially having different rental duration requirements (weekly vs. monthly minimums).

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Anna Maria Administration Office

• Address: 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, FL 34216
• Phone: (941) 708-6130
• Registration Information Email: [email protected]
• Inspection Scheduling Email: [email protected]

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation

• Website: https://www.myfloridalicense.com
• Phone: (850) 487-1395

Manatee County Tax Collector

• Website: https://www.manateetax.com
• Phone: (941) 741-3000

Links to Source Pages

1. Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Rental Rules Overview
2. Detailed Vacation Rental Ordinances
3. Anna Maria City Vacation Rental Regulations
4. City of Anna Maria Municipal Code - Vacation Rentals

Note: Regulations can change, and this guide should be used as a starting point. Always verify current requirements with local authorities before proceeding with any short-term rental investment or operation in Anna Maria, Florida.