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Tavernier

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Tavernier, FL

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STR Regulations for Tavernier, Florida

Overview: Short-Term Rental Allowance in Tavernier, FL

Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Tavernier, Florida, but with significant regulatory restrictions. Tavernier is located in unincorporated Monroe County, where vacation rentals are regulated under the county's Special Vacation Rental Program. Not all areas permit vacation rental operations, and properties must be located in approved zoning districts and obtain proper permits before legally operating short-term rentals.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Tavernier

Starting a short-term rental business in Tavernier requires navigating Monroe County's comprehensive regulatory framework. The process involves multiple compliance steps:

Step 1: Verify Zoning Eligibility

Before proceeding, property owners must confirm their property is located in a zoning district that allows vacation rentals. Properties in Improved Subdivision (IS), Urban Residential Mobile Home (URM), or IS-M (Improved Subdivision Masonry) land use districts are prohibited from operating as short-term rentals.

Step 2: Review Location Restrictions

Consult Monroe County's Vacation Rental Map Restrictions to understand specific area limitations. Some zones may only permit vacation rentals within gated communities with controlled access and approved associations that regulate and manage the rentals.

Step 3: Secure Required Permits and Licenses

Obtain multiple permits and licenses before beginning operations, including annual permits, manager licenses, and business tax receipts.

Step 4: Complete Inspections

All vacation rental properties must pass a Fire and Life Safety Inspection before receiving permits.

Step 5: Maintain Ongoing Compliance

Ensure continued compliance with advertising requirements, minimum stay rules, and all county codes throughout operations.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Annual Special Vacation Rental Permit

  • Initial Application Fee: $490
  • Renewal Fee: $100 annually
  • Permits are non-transferable between owners
  • New ownership requires obtaining a new permit
  • Required for each dwelling unit before renting as a vacation rental

Fire and Life Safety Inspection

All properties require annual fire and life safety inspections with fees:

  • 1 Bedroom: $100
  • 2-3 Bedrooms: $200
  • 4+ Bedrooms: $300
  • Re-inspection fees: Base fee plus $50 after the third inspection

Special Vacation Rental Manager License

  • Application Fee: $110
  • Required for all vacation rental units
  • Must be issued by the Planning & Environmental Resources Department

Business Tax License

All rental properties (long-term and short-term) require a business tax license from the Monroe County Tax Collector.

State-Level Requirements

  • Florida Division of Hotels and Restaurants license (public lodging facility license)
  • Monroe County Tourist Development Tax account registration

Required Applications

  • Initial Special Vacation Rental Application
  • Renewal of Special Vacation Rental Application
  • Special Vacation Rental Manager License Application
  • Fire and Life Safety Inspection Request

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Zoning Restrictions

Vacation rentals are PERMITTED in the following land use districts with a Special Vacation Rental Permit:

  • SR (Suburban Residential)
  • MU (Mixed Use)
  • UR (Urban Residential)
  • IS-V (Improved Subdivision Vacation Rental)
  • OS (Offshore Islands)

Vacation rentals are PROHIBITED in:

  • IS (Improved Subdivision)
  • URM (Urban Residential Mobile Home)
  • IS-M (Improved Subdivision Masonry)

Minimum Rental Duration

A Special Vacation Rental is defined as a dwelling unit rented, leased, or assigned for tenancies of less than 28 days duration. All rentals must be for 28+ consecutive days to the same tenant.

Advertising Requirements

  • All advertising must reflect a 28-day minimum stay requirement
  • Monthly rates must be displayed for rental or lease
  • All rentals should be for 28+ consecutive days to the same tenant
  • Advertising properties without proper permits is unlawful
  • All rentals should be for 28+ consecutive days and to the same tenant

Occupancy and Safety Standards

Properties must comply with Land Development Code requirements to ensure public health, safety, comfort, and welfare while supporting harmonious development in unincorporated county areas.

Compliance and Enforcement

Property owners must maintain compliance with all county codes and regulations. Violations can result in code compliance action, fines, and potential permit revocation.

State-Level Regulations (Florida)

Florida Statutes Chapter 509

All vacation rental properties must obtain appropriate state licenses from the Florida Division of Hotels and Restaurants, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations, as required for public lodging facilities.

Tourist Development Tax

Properties operating as vacation rentals must maintain active Monroe County Tourist Development Tax accounts and collect applicable taxes from guests.

Contact Information for Local Authority

Monroe County Planning & Environmental Resources Department

Primary Contact for Vacation Rental Permits

Monroe County Tax Collector

Business Tax Licenses and Tourist Development Tax

  • Website: www.monroetaxcollector.com
  • Handles business tax receipts and tourist development tax account registration

Fire and Life Safety Inspections

Inspection Request Portal

  • Website: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/FormCenter/Fire-Rescue-21/Vacation-Rental-Inspection-Request-75
  • Required for all vacation rental properties before permit issuance

Code Compliance Reporting

  • Website: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/codecompliance
  • Report violations or check compliance status

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations

State Licensing Requirements

  • Website: www2.myfloridalicense.com/
  • State public lodging licenses and professional regulations

Important Links and Resources

Primary Monroe County Resources

Supporting Documentation

Additional Considerations

Exemptions

Some properties may qualify for exemptions from vacation rental permits as provided in Section 134-1(b) of the Monroe County Code. Property owners should consult with the Planning & Environmental Resources Department to determine eligibility.

Transfer of Ownership

When vacation rental properties change ownership, new owners must obtain new vacation rental permits, as existing permits are non-transferable between owners.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

Property owners must maintain compliance with all county codes and regulations throughout the operation of their vacation rental business. Violations can result in code compliance action, fines, and potential permit revocation.

Process Timelines

The Monroe County website provides application processing timelines at: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/1245/Application-Process-Estimated-Timelines

This comprehensive regulatory framework ensures that short-term rental operations in Tavernier maintain community standards while providing legitimate business opportunities for property owners in approved locations. The 28-day minimum stay requirement and strict zoning restrictions are designed to balance tourism benefits with residential neighborhood preservation.

Tavernier

Market Saturation Score

036912
Mild Saturation
3/ 12
months with declining YoY revenue
2–4 declining months: early saturation pressure - watch for trend persistence.
View Full Tavernier Market Analysis →

Photos of Tavernier

Overview of Tavernier

Tavernier, FL, is a small, picturesque community located in Monroe County in the upper Florida Keys. It has a population of approximately 2,530 residents, according to the latest census data. Tavernier is situated about 90 miles southwest of Miami, making it a convenient yet tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of larger urban areas.

The city's proximity to renowned tourist attractions and natural beauty makes it an appealing destination for short-term rentals. Tavernier boasts several points of interest, such as the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, which is known for its efforts in rehabilitating and releasing injured birds. Visitors can learn more about the center's work and see the birds up close by visiting the web site: Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center.

Another notable landmark is the Anne's Beach, a quaint and family-friendly locale perfect for swimming and picnicking, located in nearby Islamorada, just a short drive away. For marine enthusiasts, the nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo offers an array of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Additionally, the historic Tavernier Hotel and the Tavernier Creek Marina serve as hubs for local history and boating activities, respectively. Visitors to Tavernier are also often enchanted by its laid-back atmosphere and the enticing culinary delights offered by local restaurants, such as the Café Moka.

Overall, Tavernier's unique blend of natural attractions, historical sites, and proximity to the larger Miami metropolitan area make it an attractive spot for short-term vacation rentals.

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