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

Yes, short-term rentals (STRs) are explicitly allowed in Pensacola, FL. There is no cap on the number of properties an investor can own. Zoning restrictions apply, and STRs are defined as any overnight rental occupied for six months or less, including individually or collectively owned dwellings. Ensure compliance with state and county regulations to operate legally.

How to Start an STR Business in Pensacola

1. Register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): Submit application, fees, and documentation.
2. Verify Zoning Compliance: Confirm location meets requirements (e.g., proximity to arterial roads, 15,000 sq ft lot size).
3. Obtain Vacation Rental License: Apply through DBPR; fees vary by license duration.
4. Appoint a Responsible Agent: Ensure a licensed agent manages transient rentals per Florida law.
5. Secure Insurance: Obtain Vacation Rental Insurance or Landlord Protection Insurance.
6. Complete Required Inspections: No opening inspections, but Certificate of Balcony Inspection needed every 3 years.
7. Set Up Tax Collection: Register with Escambia County Clerk for TDT; handle state sales tax registration.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

• Vacation Rental License (DBPR):
  • Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable for new/changed owner).
  • License Fee:
    • Half-year (≤6 months): $90 (single unit).
    • Full-year: $170 (single unit).
    • Discounts available for additional units.
  • Duration: Typically 1 year; renew annually.
• Compliance with Escambia County Zoning Ordinance:
  • STR sites must be within 0.5 miles of a collector/arterial road.
  • Minimum lot size: 15,000 sq ft.
  • Aesthetics must harmonize with surrounding area.
  • No excessive noise/traffic/nuisances.
• Responsible Agent Authorization: Documented authorization (e.g., contract) to licensed agent.
• Certificate of Balcony Inspection: Filed every 3 years (applies to non-common railings/stairwells/balconies).
• Insurance: Vacation Rental/Landlord Protection Insurance required.
• Zoning Compliance: Verify STRs meet state Division of Hotels and Restaurants standards (Florida Administrative Code).
• Tourist Development Tax (TDT) Registration: Register with Escambia County Clerk of Courts Finance Department.

Specific Regulations

• Zoning:
  • Location: Must be within 0.5 miles of a collector/arterial roadway.
  • Lot Size: Minimum 15,000 square feet.
  • Aesthetics: Interior displays visible externally must harmonize with neighborhood character.
  • Nuisances: Operation must not generate excessive noise, traffic, or other hazards.
• Occupancy Limits:
  • Calculation: 2 individuals per bedroom + 2 additional individuals per property.
  • Maximum: Up to 12 people per property (excluding children under 6).
• Property Types: ADUs, duplexes, and multifamily homes allowed as STRs, subject to compliance.
• Business Entity Operation: Allowed (e.g., LLC, Corporation); no specific restrictions.

Tax Information

• TDT (Escambia County):
  • Levy: 4% on STR income (per Escambia County Ordinances).
  • Registration: Required with Escambia County Clerk of Courts Finance Department.
  • Remittance: Monthly collection from guests; submit completed TDT return.
• State Sales Tax:
  • Hosts must register with Florida Dept. of Revenue and remit applicable sales tax.
• TDT (State):
  • Levy: Up to 6% authorized by Florida Statutes (in addition to local 4%).
  • Hosts collect and remit to proper authorities.

Contact Information

• Escambia County Clerk of Courts Finance Department (TDT):
  • Address: 190 W Government Street, Pensacola, FL 32502.
  • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 333, Pensacola, FL 32591-0333.
  • Phone: (850) 595-4310.
  • Email: tdt@escambiaclerk.com.
  • Registration Form: TDT Property Registration Form (PDF).
  • Multiple Property Reporting: TDT Unit Reporting Spreadsheet (XLS).
• Pensacola City Hall:
  • Phone: (850) 436-5555.
• Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR - Hotels & Restaurants):
  • Phone: (850) 487-1395.
  • Website: DBPR Intentions (Vacation Rental Licensing).

Links to Source Pages

• Complete Guide To Get A Vacation Rental License in Pensacola, FL (Oct 2024) (VacationRentalLicense.com).
• Short-Term Rental Regulation Pensacola, FL (April 2025) (GetChalet.com).
• Tourist Development Tax (TDT) - Escambia County Clerk (EscambiaClerk.com).
• Escambia County Land Development Code (LDC) (MyEscambia.com).
• DBPR Hotel & Restaurant Division - Licensure Intentions (MyFloridaLicense.com).