Overview: STR Status in Tavares, FL

Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Tavares, Florida. The city permits rentals for less than 30 days, provided operators comply with all applicable licensing, tax collection, and regulatory requirements. Tavares operates under a relatively low-regulation environment compared to other Florida markets, making it an attractive destination for STR investors.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Tavares

Step 1: Verify Property Eligibility

• Confirm zoning allows short-term rentals (most residential areas permit STRs)
• Review any homeowners association (HOA) or condominium association restrictions
• Ensure property meets all local housing and safety standards

Step 2: Obtain Required Business Registration

• Apply for a Business Tax Receipt from the City of Tavares
• Submit required documentation to the City's License Clerk
• Annual renewal will be necessary

Step 3: Tax Registration and Setup

• Register with the Florida Department of Revenue for state sales tax collection
• Set up systems to collect and remit applicable taxes
• Establish accounting procedures for tax reporting

Step 4: Property Preparation

• Ensure property meets safety standards (smoke detectors, emergency exits, etc.)
• Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for short-term rental operations
• Consider professional property management services for operational efficiency

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City of Tavares Requirements

• Business Tax Receipt: Required for all short-term rental operations
• Application Process: Submit to City License Clerk
• Renewal: Annual renewal required
• Contact: City License Clerk at 352.742.6414

State-Level Requirements (Florida)

• State Sales Tax Registration: Required for collecting 6% state sales tax
• Registration Authority: Florida Department of Revenue
• Collection Obligation: Mandatory on all short-term rental transactions

County-Level Requirements (Lake County)

• Tourist Development Tax: 4% tax on all short-term rentals
• Collection Responsibility: Host/operator responsible for collection and remittance
• Reporting: Follow Lake County Tourist Development Council guidelines

Additional Considerations

• HOA/Condo Association: Review and comply with any additional restrictions
• Insurance: Obtain adequate coverage for STR operations
• Local Ordinances: Ensure compliance with municipal noise, parking, and occupancy limits

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level (Tavares)

• Business Tax Receipt required for all STRs
• Definition: Short-term rentals are defined as rentals for less than 30 days
• Compliance: Must adhere to all city business operation requirements

County-Level (Lake County)

• Tourist Development Tax: 4% levy on short-term rental transactions
• Reporting Requirements: Regular remittance to Lake County Tourist Development Council

State-Level (Florida)

• Sales Tax: 6% state sales tax on short-term rentals
• Registration: Required with Florida Department of Revenue
• Collection: Mandatory for all STR operators

Additional Regulatory Considerations

• Zoning Compliance: Ensure property location permits short-term rental use
• Occupancy Limits: Adhere to any local occupancy restrictions
• Safety Requirements: Meet all applicable fire safety and building codes
• Noise and Parking: Comply with local ordinances regarding guest conduct and parking

Contact Information

City of Tavares - Business Licensing

City License Clerk

• Phone: 352.742.6414
• Location: Tavares City Hall, 201 E. Main St., Tavares, FL 32778
• General City Hall: 352-742-6209
• Website: www.tavaresfl.gov

City Clerk (Public Records & Administrative)

Susie Novack, City Clerk

• Phone: 352.742.6209
• Email: susie.novack@tavaresfl.gov
• Address: City Clerk's Office, 2nd floor, Tavares City Hall, 201 E. Main Street

Lake County - Tourist Development

Lake County Tourist Development Council

• Phone: Contact Lake County government for specific STR tax information
• Website: www.lakevisit.com

Florida Department of Revenue

State Tax Registration

• Website: revenue.fl.gov
• Phone: Contact DOR for specific sales tax registration requirements

Additional Local Contacts

Economic Development Department

• Phone: (352) 742-6402
• Email: bneron@tavares.org

Code Enforcement

• Phone: Contact through main city line (352) 742-6209
• Website: Available through city website

Market Insights and Investment Considerations

STR Market Performance (2025 Data)

• Active Listings: 47 short-term rental properties
• Average Daily Rate: $171
• Occupancy Rate: 49.0%
• Median Annual Revenue: $27,981
• Regulation Level: Low (favorable for investors)

Prime Investment Areas

1. Tavares Lakefront: Properties near Lake Dora with waterfront access
2. Historic Downtown Tavares: Walking distance to attractions and amenities
3. Mount Dora: Nearby historic destination with strong tourism appeal
4. Eustis: Another charming lakeside community with recreational opportunities

Property Recommendations

• Waterfront Properties: Highly sought after for water activities
• 3-4 Bedroom Homes: Accommodate larger families and groups
• Properties with Unique Amenities: Boat docks, pools, or lake access
• Downtown Proximity: Easy access to seaplane tours and local attractions

Links to Source Pages

• City of Tavares Official Website: www.tavaresfl.gov
• Business Tax Receipt Information: Available through Tavares city website
• Florida Department of Revenue: revenue.fl.gov
• Lake County Tourist Development: www.lakevisit.com
• Tavares Market Analysis: AirROI Tavares Report
• STR Management Services: SummerOS

Compliance Checklist

Before Launching:

• [ ] Verify zoning allows STRs
• [ ] Review HOA/condo association rules
• [ ] Obtain City Business Tax Receipt
• [ ] Register for Florida sales tax collection
• [ ] Set up Lake County Tourist Development Tax collection
• [ ] Obtain appropriate insurance
• [ ] Ensure property safety compliance

Ongoing Operations:

• [ ] Collect and remit all applicable taxes
• [ ] Maintain business registration renewal
• [ ] Monitor local ordinance changes
• [ ] Maintain property to safety standards
• [ ] Track guest compliance with house rules

This guide provides comprehensive information for investors considering short-term rental opportunities in Tavares, Florida, based on current available regulations and market conditions. Always verify current requirements with local authorities before beginning operations.