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

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Gainesville, Florida. As of October 1, 2021, the City of Gainesville no longer regulates rental units for terms of less than 30 days. This deregulation means that property owners can operate short-term rentals without needing city permits or licenses for stays under 30 days, making Gainesville one of the more business-friendly jurisdictions for STR investors in Florida.

However, while city-level regulation has been eliminated, operators must still comply with state-level requirements and county tax obligations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Gainesville

To establish a successful short-term rental operation in Gainesville, follow these key steps:

1. Property Preparation

• Ensure your property is fully furnished with stocked kitchens, linens, Wi-Fi, TVs, and comfortable layouts
• Consider high-demand amenities like pet-friendly features, pools, screened porches, and proximity to University of Florida campus
• Properties with 3+ bedrooms typically generate the highest demand and revenue

2. State Registration

• Register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) if renting the entire property more than three times per year for stays less than 30 nights
• Single room rentals are exempt from DBPR licensing requirements

3. Tax Registration

• Register for Florida state sales tax collection
• Register for Alachua County Tourist Development Tax collection
• Set up systems for proper tax remittance and record-keeping

4. Insurance and Safety

• Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for short-term rental operations
• Ensure compliance with state safety standards
• Maintain fire safety compliance

5. Marketing and Operations

• Create professional listings on multiple platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, direct booking sites)
• Implement dynamic pricing strategies
• Establish cleaning and maintenance protocols

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State Level Requirements:

• DBPR License: Required for whole-property rentals exceeding three times per year for stays under 30 days
• State Sales Tax Registration: Mandatory for all STR operators
• Tourist Development Tax Registration: Required through Alachua County

Documentation Requirements:

• Maintain detailed records of all bookings and revenue
• Keep receipts for property expenses and improvements
• Document tax payments and remittances
• Maintain guest records and correspondence
• Store insurance policy documents and safety compliance certificates

No City-Level Requirements:

• No city permits required for rentals under 30 days
• No city licensing fees
• No city-specific registration process

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Gainesville:

• Effective October 1, 2021: No regulation of rentals less than 30 days
• No permits, licenses, or fees required at the city level
• Must still comply with general zoning ordinances and occupancy rules

Alachua County:

• Tourist Development Tax: 5% on all rentals shorter than six months
• Tax must be collected from guests and remitted to the county
• Registration required for tax collection purposes

State of Florida:

• Sales Tax: 6% on all rentals under six months
• DBPR Licensing: Required for whole-property rentals exceeding frequency thresholds
• Safety Standards: Must meet state requirements for guest safety
• Insurance Requirements: Appropriate coverage for short-term rental operations

Revenue Potential:

Gainesville STR operators typically earn $2,500-$6,000 per month, with football weekends and University of Florida events potentially tripling nightly rates. Properties near UF campus, Shands Hospital, or downtown command premium rates.

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Gainesville:

• Address: 200 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
• Phone: (352) 334-5000
• Website: www.gainesvillefl.gov/
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• STR Information: www.gainesvillefl.gov/Government-Pages/Government/Departments/Sustainable-Development/Code-Enforcement/Short-Term-Rentals

Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR):

For state licensing requirements and compliance information.

Alachua County Tax Collector:

For Tourist Development Tax registration and remittance.

Source Links

• City of Gainesville Official STR Page
• Vacation Rental License Guide for Gainesville
• StayGainesville Property Management Guide

Key Takeaways for STR Investors

Gainesville presents an exceptional opportunity for short-term rental investors due to its deregulated city environment combined with strong demand drivers from the University of Florida, Shands Hospital, and tourism activity. The elimination of city-level permitting and licensing requirements significantly reduces barriers to entry while maintaining reasonable state-level oversight.

Success factors include strategic property selection near key demand generators, professional property management, proper tax compliance, and leveraging Gainesville's unique seasonal demand patterns including football weekends and university events. The market typically supports higher revenue per property compared to many Florida markets due to limited hotel inventory and consistent year-round demand from medical, university, and tourism sectors.

Investors should focus on properties with 3+ bedrooms, desirable amenities, and proximity to major demand drivers while ensuring full compliance with state licensing and both county and state tax obligations.