Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Short-term rentals are permitted in The Villages, Florida. However, the regulatory environment is complex and primarily governed by deed restrictions, community guidelines, and state-level preemptive legislation rather than traditional municipal zoning ordinances.

Key Point: Florida state law explicitly prohibits local governments from banning short-term rentals altogether and from limiting the length or frequency of stays. This makes The Villages a legally viable market for STR investment, though deed restrictions and community policies still apply.

Market Overview for STR Investors

The Villages operates as an unincorporated master-planned community spanning three counties (Sumter, Lake, and Marion). The rental market is particularly strong during peak season (January-March), with monthly rentals commanding premium rates of $2,500-$4,000+. Off-season rates typically range around $100/night for weekly or bi-weekly stays.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business

Step-by-Step Process

1. Property Acquisition: Focus on high-demand property types:

   • Designer Homes (near town squares command premium rates)
   • Patio Villas (economical entry point, high rental demand)
   • Courtyard Villas
   • Premier Homes with pools

2. Compliance Verification: Review property deed restrictions and community guidelines before purchasing.

3. Insurance Securitization: Obtain appropriate landlord/STR insurance coverage.

4. Property Preparation: Furnish and equip property to meet STR guest expectations.

5. Marketing Strategy: Utilize local platforms like OurVillagesRental.com and major platforms like Airbnb, VRBO.

Required Documents and Permits

Important Note: Based on available information, there appears to be no formal municipal permitting process specifically for STRs in The Villages. However, the following are typically required:

Essential Documentation

• Property ownership documentation
• General Liability Insurance
• Property Insurance (covering STR operations)
• Business license (if operating as formal business entity)
• County tax registration for rental income
• Local contact person documentation

Deed Restriction Compliance

Review your specific neighborhood's deed restrictions for:

• Business operation clauses
• Rental duration restrictions
• Occupancy limitations
• Parking requirements

State-Level Regulations (Florida)

Preemptive Legislation

• SB 1120 (2021): Prohibits local governments from banning short-term rentals
• SB 1888 (2019): Prohibits local governments from restricting rental duration or frequency
• Local governments can regulate parking, noise, trash collection, and occupancy limits
• Counties can require registration and implement reasonable safety standards

County-Level Oversight

As The Villages spans multiple counties:

• Sumter County (primary location)
• Lake County
• Marion County

Each county may have different registration requirements and regulations.

Specific Regulations and Restrictions

Community Deed Restrictions

• Properties may be subject to "no business" language in deed restrictions
• Enforcement relies on property owner associations rather than government
• No legal precedent has established definitive boundaries for STR operations

Property-Specific Considerations

• Occupancy Limits: Most properties specify maximum 2 persons
• Pet Policies: Vary significantly by property - many prohibit pets
• Parking: Limited in villa-style properties
• Noise and Conduct: Must comply with community quiet hours and behavior guidelines

Market-Driven Restrictions

• Peak season (Jan-Mar) often requires multiple-month minimum bookings
• Summer months see reduced demand and increased vacancy
• Properties near town squares command premium rates ($500,000+ valuations)

Contact Information

The Villages Community

The Villages Community Development Districts

• Website: www.thevillages.com
• Phone: (352) 753-0402

County Authorities

Sumter County (Primary)

• Website: www.sumtercountyfl.gov
• Phone: (352) 793-0200

Lake County

• Website: www.lakecountyclerk.org
• Phone: (352) 343-9765

Marion County

• Website: www.marionflclerk.org
• Phone: (352) 671-5604

STR Platforms and Resources

Our Villages Rental (Local platform)

• Website: www.ourvillagesrental.com
• Email: Available through website contact form

Source Links

1. Talk of The Villages Forum - No Rental Zones Discussion
2. Our Villages Rental - Renting Overview
3. Florida State STR Legislation Reference

Investment Considerations and Recommendations

Due Diligence Requirements

• Verify specific deed restrictions for target property
• Confirm county-specific regulations for property location
• Review property association bylaws and enforcement history
• Assess market saturation in specific neighborhoods

Risk Factors

• Deed restriction enforcement is community-driven and unpredictable
• Market volatility in peak/off-season demand
• Property maintenance requirements in retirement community setting
• Competition from established local rental companies

Success Factors

• Prime locations near town squares or recreational facilities
• Professional property management in local area
• Competitive pricing during shoulder seasons
• Strong communication with property owners association

Disclaimer: This guide is based on community discussions and available public information. Investors should conduct thorough legal research and consult with local real estate attorneys familiar with The Villages deed restrictions before making investment decisions.