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

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Cantonment, Florida. However, it is essential to understand that Cantonment does not have specific local ordinances governing short-term rentals. Instead, operations must comply with state-level Florida regulations and Escambia County requirements. Hosts should be aware that while short-term rentals are permitted, zoning restrictions may apply depending on the specific location within Cantonment's residential zones.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Cantonment

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

Before purchasing or listing your property, confirm that short-term rentals are permitted in your specific zoning district. Some residential zones in Cantonment may prohibit short-term rentals or require special permits. Contact the Escambia County Planning and Zoning Department to verify compliance.

Step 2: Obtain Required Licensing

• Apply for a Florida Vacation Rental License through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) if you plan to rent your property more than three times per year for periods less than 30 days or one month per rental
• Schedule and pass the required property inspection
• Submit all necessary documentation and fees

Step 3: Set Up Tax Collection and Remittance Systems

• Register for state sales tax collection (6% current rate)
• Set up tourist development tax collection for Escambia County
• Implement systems to collect, track, and remit these taxes quarterly

Step 4: Prepare Your Property

• Ensure property meets all safety and habitability standards
• Install required safety equipment (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, etc.)
• Consider property management options for ongoing operations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Requirements (Florida)

1. Florida Vacation Rental License

   • Issued by Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
   • Required for properties rented more than 3 times annually for periods under 30 days
   • Includes property inspection requirement
   • Annual renewal required

2. State Sales Tax Registration

   • Register with Florida Department of Revenue
   • Collect and remit 6% state sales tax
   • File quarterly returns

County-Level Requirements (Escambia County)

1. Tourist Development Tax Registration

   • Register with Escambia County Tax Collector
   • Collect and remit local tourist development taxes
   • File quarterly returns

2. Zoning Compliance Verification

   • Contact Escambia County Planning and Zoning Department
   • Verify short-term rental use is permitted in your zoning district
   • Obtain special use permits if required

Property Preparation Guidelines

• Maintain property in safe, habitable condition
• Ensure adequate insurance coverage for short-term rental operations
• Comply with local building and safety codes
• Consider HOA rules and restrictions if applicable

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

State Regulations (Florida)

• Licensing Threshold: Properties rented more than 3 times per year for less than 30 days or one month require DBPR licensing
• State Sales Tax: 6% tax on all short-term rental charges
• Inspection Requirements: Properties must pass safety inspections for license issuance
• Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all rentals, income, and tax collections

County Regulations (Escambia County)

• Tourist Development Tax: Additional local taxes apply to short-term rentals
• Zoning Restrictions: Some residential zones may prohibit short-term rentals or require special permits
• Quarterly Tax Remittance: Both state and local taxes must be filed quarterly

Zoning Considerations

• Verify with Escambia County Planning and Zoning before operation
• Residential zoning classifications may have specific restrictions
• Some areas may require special use permits for short-term rental operations
• HOA restrictions may apply in managed communities

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

• Website: www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR
• Phone: (850) 487-1395
• Purpose: Vacation rental licensing and inspections

Florida Department of Revenue

• Website: floridarevenue.com
• Phone: (850) 488-6800
• Purpose: State sales tax registration and collection

Escambia County Tax Collector

• Website: escambiacountytax.com
• Phone: (850) 937-2104
• Purpose: Tourist development tax registration and collection

Escambia County Planning and Zoning

• Phone: (850) 595-1800
• Purpose: Zoning verification and special use permits

Source Pages

1. Gosummer.com - Vacation Rental Management in Cantonment, Florida

   • URL: www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/cantonment-florida
   • Information: General market overview, licensing requirements, tax obligations

2. Checkmate Rentals - Airbnb Management in Cantonment, Florida

   • URL: www.checkmaterentals.com/airbnb-management/cantonment-florida
   • Information: State-level regulations, DBPR licensing requirements, tax obligations

Important Considerations for Investors

• No City-Specific Regulations: Cantonment lacks municipal short-term rental ordinances, so state and county rules apply
• Zoning Compliance is Critical: Always verify zoning allowances before investing
• Tax Obligations: Plan for both state sales tax (6%) and local tourist development taxes
• Inspection Requirements: Budget for property inspections as part of licensing process
• Ongoing Compliance: Maintain records and file quarterly tax returns
• Insurance Considerations: Ensure adequate coverage for short-term rental operations

This guide provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and complying with short-term rental regulations in Cantonment, Florida. Always verify current requirements with local authorities, as regulations may change.