Monticello, Florida Short-Term Rental Investment Guide

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

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Monticello, Florida. However, it is essential to understand that Monticello does not have specific city ordinances governing short-term rentals. Instead, operators must comply with Florida state regulations. The zoning data confirms that short-term rentals are a permitted use within the city, representing approximately 6.71% of land use allocation, indicating regulatory acceptance of this business model.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Monticello

Starting a short-term rental business in Monticello requires careful planning and adherence to state-level regulations. The process begins with thorough market research, leveraging the area's proximity to Tallahassee and its appeal as a historic Southern town. Given the seasonal nature of the market—with peak demand during late fall through winter months and the annual Watermelon Festival in June—investors should strategically position their properties to capitalize on these predictable demand patterns.

The first step involves property acquisition and zoning verification. While short-term rentals are permitted use in Monticello, investors must confirm that their specific property is located in a zone that allows short-term rental operations. The Zoneomics data indicates that short-term rentals are integrated into the city's zoning framework, but local variations may exist.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Requirements

1. Florida Business License

• All short-term rental operators must obtain a license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
• This is the primary regulatory requirement at the state level
• The license must be displayed prominently in the rental property

2. Tax Registration and Collection

• State Sales Tax: Operators must collect and remit Florida state sales tax on all bookings
• Local Tourist Development Tax: Monticello operators must also collect and remit local tourist development tax
• Registration with the Florida Department of Revenue is required for tax collection
• Regular filing and payment schedules must be maintained

3. Local Compliance Considerations

• While Monticello lacks specific STR ordinances, operators must comply with general zoning and land use regulations
• Property insurance requirements should be reviewed with local agents
• Business tax receipts may be required from Jefferson County

Documentation and Record Keeping

Essential Documentation:

• Copy of Florida DBPR license
• Tax registration confirmations
• Property deed or lease agreement
• Proof of insurance coverage
• Guest registration and check-in/out logs
• Financial records for tax remittance
• Emergency contact information and property rules

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations

Monticello operates under a permissive regulatory framework for short-term rentals. The absence of specific city ordinances means operators primarily operate under state guidelines and general municipal codes. However, the city's zoning framework explicitly acknowledges short-term rentals as a legitimate land use, providing regulatory certainty for investors.

County-Level Regulations

Jefferson County, where Monticello is located, may have additional requirements not detailed in the provided content. Operators should verify county-level tax obligations and any potential local ordinances that might affect short-term rental operations.

State-Level Regulations (Florida)

1. Licensing Requirements

• Mandatory registration with Florida DBPR
• Compliance with Florida Statutes Chapter 509 (Transient Occupancy Regulations)
• Adherence to safety and health standards

2. Tax Obligations

• 6% Florida state sales tax on gross receipts
• Local tourist development tax (rate varies by county)
• Monthly or quarterly filing requirements depending on revenue volume

3. Operational Standards

• Compliance with building and fire safety codes
• Adherence to local noise ordinances and quiet hours
• Compliance with parking and occupancy limits
• Guest registration requirements

Homeowners Association and Deed Restrictions

A critical consideration for Monticello investors is the potential impact of private restrictions. The provided content explicitly notes that "some areas in Monticello may have Homeowner's Association (HOA) rules or deed restrictions that prohibit short-term rentals." This creates a significant due diligence requirement for investors:

• HOA Restrictions: Review all HOA bylaws, covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) before purchasing
• Deed Restrictions: Check property deed for rental prohibition clauses
• Conditional Uses: Some zones may allow short-term rentals only as conditional uses with specific requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

Primary State Licensing Authority

• Website: www.myfloridalicense.com
• Phone: 850-487-1395
• Purpose: STR licensing, renewals, and regulatory compliance

Florida Department of Revenue

Tax Collection and Remittance

• Website: floridarevenue.com
• Phone: 850-488-6800
• Purpose: Sales tax registration, collection guidance, filing support

Jefferson County Tax Collector

Local Tax Administration

• Phone: Contact Jefferson County government for current information
• Purpose: Local tourist development tax and business tax receipts

City of Monticello

Local Zoning and General Administration

• Contact Jefferson County planning and zoning for city-specific questions
• Municipal contact information should be verified through current local directories

Source Pages and References

1. GoSummer - Monticello Vacation Rental Management: https://www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/monticello-florida

   • Market overview, regulatory compliance, and operational guidance

2. Zoneomics - Monticello Zoning Data: https://www.zoneomics.com/zoning-maps/florida/monticello

   • Comprehensive zoning information and land use allocation data

Strategic Considerations for Investors

Monticello's short-term rental market presents unique opportunities and challenges. The regulatory environment is relatively straightforward, with state-level oversight and permissive city zoning. However, investors must navigate private restrictions and seasonal market dynamics. The proximity to Tallahassee and the historic character of the area provide solid fundamentals for investment success.

The key to successful STR investment in Monticello lies in thorough pre-acquisition due diligence, strict regulatory compliance, and strategic positioning to capitalize on the area's seasonal demand patterns and unique attractions.