Overview: Short-Term Rentals Status in Saint Petersburg, FL

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Saint Petersburg, FL, but with significant restrictions. Properties may operate as short-term rentals (under 30 days) up to three times within any consecutive 365-day period unless they are located in specific zoning districts where hotel or motel use is permissible or have received special overlay approval. This limitation is a key distinguishing factor from many other Florida markets.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Saint Petersburg

Step 1: Verify Property Eligibility

• Use the city's ADU Map Look-up tool
• Email DevRev@stpete.org with your property address for verification
• Check if your property is in a zoning district that allows transient accommodations
• Confirm your property isn't restricted by HOA regulations

Step 2: Understand Zoning Requirements

• Verify your property's zoning designation allows vacation rentals
• Properties in certain residential zones have specific restrictions
• Review PAG (Preservation Area Guidelines) overlay requirements if applicable
• Ensure compliance with single-family home or condominium-specific restrictions

Step 3: Obtain Required Permits and Licenses

• Apply for building permits if modifications are needed
• Complete the Business Tax Certificate Receipt application
• Secure appropriate zoning approvals
• Ensure compliance with fire safety codes

Step 4: Register for Tax Collection

• Register with Pinellas County Tax Collector for Tourist Development Tax
• Register with Florida Department of Revenue for State Sales Tax
• Set up systems for tax collection and remittance

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Licenses and Permits

1. Business Tax Certificate Receipt - Required by St. Petersburg authorities as proof of registration and local business tax compliance
2. DBPR License - Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation license ensuring property meets state safety and sanitation standards
3. Building Permits - Required for any property modifications or conversions
4. Zoning Compliance Verification - Confirmation that your property's zoning allows short-term rental use

Required Documentation

• Property ownership documentation
• Insurance certificates meeting commercial standards
• Safety compliance certificates (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers)
• Floor plans and site surveys for new construction or modifications
• HOA approval documentation (if applicable)

Safety and Building Standards

• Proper maintenance of all structural elements
• Adequate emergency egress paths
• Functional smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers
• Compliance with Florida Building Code requirements
• Meeting accessibility standards where applicable
• Proper stormwater management systems

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Saint Petersburg Regulations

Frequency Limitations:

• Short-term rentals (under 30 days) limited to 3 times per 365-day period
• Exceptions for properties in hotel/motel zoning districts
• Properties with special overlay approval may have different requirements

Zoning Restrictions:

• Must comply with specific zoning district regulations
• Only certain districts allow rentals of less than 30 days
• PAG overlay districts have additional preservation requirements

Operational Requirements:

• Properties must maintain residential character in residential zones
• Parking requirements must be met
• Noise and disturbance regulations must be followed
• Regular property maintenance and cleanliness standards

County Regulations (Pinellas County)

• Tourist Development Tax: 6% of listing price for stays 182 nights or shorter
• Specific zoning maps designate where short-term rentals are permitted
• County health department regulations apply

State of Florida Regulations

• Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licensing required
• State sales tax collection and remittance mandatory
• Florida Building Code compliance required
• Health and safety standards per Florida Statutes

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Saint Petersburg

Planning and Development Services Department

• Phone: (727) 893-7230
• Email: DevRev@stpete.org (for ADU and zoning inquiries)
• Email: eplanreview@stpete.org (for building permits)
• Email: Floodplain@stpete.org (for flood zone questions)
• Website: www.stpete.org/
• Address: St. Petersburg City Hall, Planning and Development Services Department

Business Tax Certificates

• Website: www.stpete.org/business/business_assistance/business_tax_certificates.php

Pinellas County Tax Collector

• Website: pinellastaxcollector.gov/
• Purpose: Tourist Development Tax registration and collection

Florida Department of Revenue

• Website: Florida Department of Revenue
• Purpose: State sales tax registration and collection

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation

• Website: www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/
• Purpose: DBPR license applications

Source Links

1. Steadily Insurance Guide: www.steadily.com/blog/airbnb-short-term-rental-laws-egulations-st-petersburg
2. St. Pete Beach Official Regulations: www.stpetebeach.org/438/Short-Term-Rental-Rules-Regulations
3. City of St. Petersburg ADU Information: www.stpete.org/residents/housing/homeowners/accessory_dwelling_units.php
4. MasterHost Regulatory Guide: masterhost.ca/saint-petersburg-florida-airbnb-regulations/

Compliance and Penalties

Enforcement Measures:

• Formal warnings for initial violations
• Monetary fines for continued non-compliance
• Temporary license suspension
• Permanent license revocation for severe violations
• Regular inspections and community reporting systems

Key Compliance Areas:

• Maintaining proper licensing and registration
• Adhering to frequency limitations (3 times per 365 days)
• Meeting all safety and building code requirements
• Proper tax collection and remittance
• Zoning compliance verification

Important Considerations for Investors

Market Restrictions

• The 3-times-per-year limitation significantly impacts revenue potential compared to unrestricted markets
• Focus on longer-term stays (30+ days) may be more viable for consistent income
• Consider the nearby St. Pete Beach market, which may have different regulations

Due Diligence Requirements

• Thoroughly verify zoning compliance before purchase
• Understand HOA restrictions that may supersede city regulations
• Factor regulatory compliance costs into investment calculations
• Stay informed about evolving city ordinances and state laws

Saint Petersburg's short-term rental market requires careful navigation of complex regulations, but with proper compliance and understanding of the limitations, investors can still operate successfully within the city's framework. The key is thorough preparation, proper licensing, and adherence to all operational requirements.