Fort Myers, Florida
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Fort Myers, FL
Challenging To Investors
Local STR Agent
STR Regulations for Fort Myers, Florida
Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Fort Myers Beach?
YES – Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Fort Myers Beach, FL, but they are strictly regulated and require mandatory registration with the Town of Fort Myers Beach.
The Town formalized STR regulations on May 7, 2018, through Ordinance 34-2394, establishing a comprehensive registration process and code of conduct requirements. Fort Myers Beach has implemented a robust regulatory framework that balances the economic benefits of vacation rentals with community preservation concerns.
How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Fort Myers Beach
Step 1: Understand Your Zoning and Property Eligibility
- Verify your property is located within Fort Myers Beach town limits
- Confirm zoning compliance for STR operations
- For condominiums, check if your building has "opted out" of town enforcement (see Opt-Out Provisions below)
Step 2: Complete Registration Process
- Register through Rentalscape: The town has transitioned to this mandatory software platform
- Public Portal: Access the registration system through the provided portal
- Registration Required: All STR properties must be registered, regardless of size or frequency of rental
Step 3: Obtain Required State and Local Licenses
- Apply for Florida DBPR Vacation Rental License
- Obtain any required fire safety inspections
- Register for tax collection (state sales tax and Lee County tourist development tax)
Step 4: Establish Operational Systems
- Develop and communicate a comprehensive code of conduct for guests
- Implement property management and response systems
- Set up tax collection and remittance procedures
Step 5: Maintain Ongoing Compliance
- Complete annual renewals through Rentalscape
- Maintain required insurance coverage
- Stay current with regulatory updates
Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines
Municipal Registration Requirements
- Town Registration: Mandatory through Rentalscape platform
- Registration Fees: Established by Resolution 18-01 (fees vary by property type)
- Code of Conduct: Must review and agree to adhere to town's Code of Conduct
- Property Information: Complete property details, ownership, emergency contacts
State-Level Licensing Requirements
Florida DBPR Vacation Rental License Required if:
- Renting entire unit more than three times per calendar year
- Renting for periods less than 30 days or 1 calendar month (whichever is less)
- Advertising or holding out as regularly rented to guests
DBPR License Classifications:
- Vacation Rental - Condominium: For units in condominiums or cooperatives
- Vacation Rental - Dwelling: For single-family homes or multi-family dwellings (4 units or less)
DBPR Licensing Options:
- Single License: One property owned/operated by same individual/entity
- Group License: Multiple units in same building/complex operated by licensed agent
- Collective License: Multiple properties at separate locations (max 75 units, same district)
DBPR Fees:
- Application Fee: $50
- HEP (Hospitality Education Program) Fee: $10
- License Fee: Varies by unit count and license type ($170-$350 for single licenses, $150 base + $10/unit for collective)
Safety and Inspection Requirements
- Fire Inspection: Required through Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District
- Pre-Inspection Checklist: Must ensure compliance with building and fire codes
- Balcony Inspection Certificate: Required every 3 years for buildings 3+ stories (if balconies not common elements)
- Safety Equipment: Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers
Tax Registration and Collection
- State Sales Tax: 6% on gross rental income
- Lee County Tourist Development Tax: 5% on gross rental income
- Total Tax Rate: 11% collected from guests
- Registration Required: Florida Department of Revenue (state tax) and Lee County (tourist tax)
Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals
Town of Fort Myers Beach Regulations
Registration and Licensing:
- Mandatory registration through Rentalscape platform (no paper applications accepted)
- Annual renewal required
- Registration must be displayed conspicuously on property
- Separate registration required for each rental unit
Operational Requirements:
- Must adhere to Town's Code of Conduct
- Property maintenance standards: clean, safe, and in good physical condition
- Emergency contact information must be prominently displayed
- Guest registry requirements
Condominium Specific Rules:
- Opt-Out Provision: Condominium associations may opt out of town enforcement by applying to Town Manager
- Opt-out applies to entire building, not individual units
- Requires submission of specific letter format and registration fee per building
- Opt-out associations must self-perform enforcement similar to town methods
Noise and Nuisance Control:
- 24-hour hotline for noise complaints: 239-477-1000 (Lee County Sheriff's Office)
- Violations handled through town's code enforcement process
- Town Ordinance No. 96-24 governs noise level limits
Lee County Requirements
- Tourist Development Tax: 5% collection and remittance required
- Business Tax Receipt: May be required for commercial operations
- Enforcement: County sheriff handles noise and disturbance complaints
State of Florida Requirements
- DBPR Licensing: Required for most STR operations
- Human Trafficking Awareness Training: Annual training required for housekeeping/front desk staff
- Fire Safety Standards: Compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
- Food Service Requirements: If providing dishes/glassware, proper sanitization required
Zoning Restrictions
- STR operations must comply with local zoning ordinances
- Residential neighborhoods may have specific restrictions
- Commercial and mixed-use areas typically more permissive
Contact Information for Local Authority
Town of Fort Myers Beach - Primary Contacts
General STR Registration and Zoning Inquiries:
- Phone: 239-765-0202
- Email: STR@fmbgov.com
- Address: 6231 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Melissa Chaidez - Community Development Administrative Assistant:
- Phone: 239-765-0202
- Email: melissa.chaidez@fmbgov.com
- Responsibility: STR registration assistance, opt-out process inquiries
Tracie Raski - Magistrate Coordinator:
- Email: TRaski@fmbgov.com
- Responsibility: Code case related inquiries, violation enforcement
Emergency and Violation Reporting
24-Hour STR Violation Hotline:
- Phone: 239-944-3956
Noise Complaints:
- Lee County Sheriff's Office: 239-477-1000
Online Complaint Form:
- Available through town's STR complaint portal
State-Level Contacts
Florida DBPR - Division of Hotels and Restaurants:
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- TTY: 800-955-8771
- Email: dhr.info@myfloridalicense.com
- Address: 2601 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011
- Website: www.myfloridalicense.com
Customer Contact Center:
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Online Request: Available through DBPR website
Tax Authorities
Florida Department of Revenue:
- Website: floridarevenue.com/taxes
- Phone: 850-488-6800
- Registration: Required for state sales tax collection
Lee County Tax Collector:
- Website: leecountytaxcollector.com
- Phone: Contact Lee County directly
- Responsibility: Tourist development tax collection
Important Links to Source Pages
Primary Government Sources
Town of Fort Myers Beach - Short-Term Rentals:
Town Code of Conduct:
Ordinance 18-01 (Short-Term Rentals Regulation):
Land Development Code - Division 32-A Short-Term Rentals:
Registered Condominium Opt Out List:
FMB Fire District - STR Inspections:
State-Level Sources
Florida DBPR - Vacation Rental Licensing Guide:
DBPR Online Services (License Management):
Florida Statutes - Chapter 509 (Public Lodging Establishments):
Florida Administrative Code - Rules 61C-1 and 61C-3:
Tax Collection Sources
Florida Department of Revenue - Sales Tax:
Lee County Tourist Development Tax:
Software Platforms
Rentalscape Registration Portal (Fort Myers Beach):
STR Complaint Portal:
Compliance Note: Regulations for short-term rentals in Fort Myers Beach are actively enforced and subject to change. Investors should verify current requirements with local authorities before making investment decisions. The town's transition to the Rentalscape platform represents a significant modernization of their enforcement capabilities, suggesting increased compliance monitoring in the future.
Fort Myers
Market Saturation Score
Photos of Fort Myers
Overview of Fort Myers
Overview of Fort Myers, FL
Fort Myers, Florida, is a historical city located in the southwestern part of the state along the Caloosahatchee River. The city has a thriving population of approximately 92,000 residents. It is situated roughly 125 miles or a two-hour drive south of Tampa, making it a relatively close option for tourists seeking a blend of coastal and metropolitan experiences.
Appeal for Short-Term Rentals
Fort Myers has increasingly become an attractive destination for short-term rentals due to its blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.
Key Attractions and Landmarks
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Edison and Ford Winter Estates: One of the top historical attractions in Fort Myers, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers visitors a glimpse into the lives and inventions of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The estates feature beautifully landscaped gardens, historic buildings, and a museum. More information is available on their official website.
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Fort Myers Beach: A short drive from the city center, Fort Myers Beach is a popular destination for sunbathing, water sports, and seaside dining. The beach is known for its pristine white sands and shallow waters, ideal for families.
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Manatee Park: This natural public park offers a unique opportunity to see Florida manatees in their natural habitat, particularly during the cooler winter months. The park provides boardwalks, kayak rentals, and educational programs. More details can be found on the Lee County Parks & Recreation site.
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IMAG History & Science Center: A family-friendly attraction that combines interactive science exhibits and historical displays, providing educational fun for all ages. Visit their official site for more information.
Summary
With its historical charm, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly activities, Fort Myers presents a compelling case for short-term rentals. Its proximity to larger cities like Tampa adds to its attractiveness, making it a convenient yet scenic getaway. Whether visitors are history buffs, nature enthusiasts, or simply looking for a relaxing beach vacation, Fort Myers offers diverse attractions to meet their interests.
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