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

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Sarasota, Florida, but they are subject to comprehensive regulation and registration requirements. The City of Sarasota permits vacation rentals within residential zoning districts throughout city limits, with a mandatory minimum stay requirement of 7 full days and 7 full nights.

It's important to note that while the regulations are described as "citywide," they do not apply to all areas of the city. Properties in mixed-use zone districts (such as Downtown Edge and Downtown Neighborhood districts) are currently exempt from these requirements, though this may change as the city continues to evaluate the ordinance's scope.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Sarasota

To operate a short-term rental business in Sarasota, you must follow these essential steps:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Your property must meet all three criteria:

• Be a single, two, three, or four-family dwelling unit
• Be located in a Residential Single or Multi-Family Zoning District
• Be non-owner occupied (owner does not live on premises)

Step 2: Obtain Required Registrations and Licenses

Before applying for the city certificate:

• Register with the State of Florida (required for rentals of 6 months or less)
• Register with Sarasota County Tax Collector for the 6% Tourist Tax
• Apply for a City of Sarasota Local Business Tax Receipt certificate

Step 3: Submit Registration Application

• Applications opened July 1, 2024
• Submit application through the city's online portal
• Pay required registration fees (non-refundable)
• Schedule mandatory safety inspection within 30 days of approval

Step 4: Pass Safety Inspection

Your property must pass a comprehensive safety inspection covering all minimum safety and informational requirements outlined in the city's inspection checklist.

Step 5: Receive Certificate of Registration

Once approved and inspected, you'll receive your Certificate of Registration, which must be displayed and included in all advertising.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Requirements:

• Florida State License: Required for all rentals of 6 months or less
• Florida Department of Revenue Tax Registration: For state tax compliance

County-Level Requirements:

• Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Registration: 6% tax on all short-term rentals
• Record Keeping: Maintain adequate records of lessees, rental periods, and occupants

City-Level Requirements:

• Certificate of Registration: Separate certificate required for each vacation rental property
• Local Business Tax Receipt: From City of Sarasota
• Homestead Exemption Proof: If claiming owner-occupancy exemption
• Safety Compliance Documentation: Pool/spa safety compliance, evacuation routes, etc.

Mandatory Postings Within Property:

• City of Sarasota vacation rental certificate number
• Sound ordinance statement
• Hurricane evacuation route map to nearest shelters
• Contact information for 24/7 responsible party
• Maximum occupancy limits
• Parking plan information

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Minimum Stay Requirements:

• 7 full days and 7 full nights minimum for all vacation rentals within city limits
• No exceptions to this requirement

Maximum Occupancy Limits:

Single Family Zone Districts:

• 2 persons per bedroom, plus 2 additional persons per property
• Maximum of 10 persons total
• Children under 6 years old not counted in occupancy calculations

Multiple Family Zone Districts:

• 2 persons per bedroom, plus 2 additional persons per property
• Maximum of 12 persons total
• Children under 6 years old not counted in occupancy calculations

Coastal Islands Overlay District:

• Same limits as above (10 persons for single-family, 12 for multi-family)
• These limits took effect December 31, 2024

Mainland Properties (Grandfathered Provisions): For vacation rentals lawfully existing before February 5, 2024:

• 2025: Maximum 16 persons
• 2026: Maximum reduced to 14 persons
• 2027 and beyond: Standard limits apply (10 or 12 persons)

Parking Requirements:

• All vehicles must be parked within designated driveway or parking area on premises
• Must comply with approved parking plan submitted with registration
• No street parking for vacation rental guests

Advertising Requirements:

• Must include City of Sarasota vacation rental certificate number in all listings
• Must comply with 7-day minimum stay requirement in all advertising
• Cannot advertise occupancy exceeding maximum limits
• Applies to all online and print media advertising

Safety and Maintenance Standards:

• Annual inspections required for certificate renewal
• Swimming pools/spas must comply with Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act
• Fire safety equipment as required by inspection checklist
• 24/7 responsible party contact information must be available

Exemptions:

The registration requirements DO NOT apply to:

• Owner-occupied vacation rentals
• Condominiums
• Cooperatives
• Properties rented for 30+ consecutive days
• Properties not in residential zoning districts

Contact Information for Local STR Authority

City of Sarasota Development Services Department Vacation Rental Compliance Division

Phone: (941) 263-6623

Email: vacationrentals@sarasotafl.gov

Physical Address: 1575 2nd Street, 3rd Floor Sarasota, FL 34236

Mailing Address: City Hall 1565 1st Street Sarasota, FL 34236

General City Phone: (941) 263-6000

Source Links

• Primary Vacation Rental Information: www.sarasotafl.gov/Department-Pages/Development-Services/Vacation-Rental-Compliance
• Requirements and Standards: www.sarasotafl.gov/Department-Pages/Development-Services/Vacation-Rental-Compliance/Vacation-Rental-Requirements-and-Standards
• City Code Chapter 34.5 (Vacation Rentals): library.municode.com/fl/sarasota/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIITHCO_CH34.5VARE
• Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations Information: sarasotaccna.org/vacation-rentals
• Recent Ordinance Updates: www.yourobserver.com/news/2025/jul/23/vacation-rental-amendments/

Important Compliance Notes

Current Status: As of January 1, 2025, it is illegal to operate a covered vacation rental without proper registration, inspection, approval, and issued Certificate of Registration.

Late Applications: Applications submitted after October 31, 2024, are subject to late fees.

Enforcement: The city actively monitors rental advertising through sophisticated computer systems and works with major platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and others to ensure compliance.

Record Keeping: Property owners must maintain detailed records of all rentals, including guest information and rental periods, available for inspection upon request.

This comprehensive regulatory framework reflects Sarasota's commitment to balancing the economic benefits of short-term rentals with the need to preserve residential neighborhood character and ensure visitor safety. Property owners should carefully review all requirements and maintain ongoing compliance to avoid violations and penalties.