Short-Term Rental Regulations in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and bustling marina, is a prime destination for tourists and short-term vacationers. For property owners in the city, Airbnb and other short-term rental (STR) platforms offer a lucrative opportunity to capitalize on the area’s popularity.

However, successful and legal operation of an STR requires a thorough understanding of the local regulatory environment. This guide provides detailed insights into the rules governing short-term rentals in Fort Lauderdale, ensuring hosts can navigate these regulations effectively.

Overview of Short-Term Rental Regulations in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has developed specific regulations aimed at managing short-term rentals responsibly within the community. These rules are designed to ensure guest safety, maintain the quality of life for local residents, and integrate STRs into the community without disruption.

Licensing and Registration

1. Vacation Rental License: All STR operators in Fort Lauderdale must obtain a Vacation Rental License. This process involves an application with the city, which includes submitting floor plans and proof of liability insurance.
2. Certificate of Compliance: Alongside the Vacation Rental License, hosts are required to obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the City of Fort Lauderdale, which involves an inspection to ensure the property meets all building and safety codes.

Tax Requirements

Airbnb hosts are required to collect and remit both state and local taxes on rental income. This includes Florida’s state sales tax and a local Broward County tourist development tax. Hosts must register with the Florida Department of Revenue and the Broward County Revenue Collector to fulfill these tax obligations.

Safety and Health Standards

1. Safety Inspections: As part of the licensing process, STR properties undergo safety inspections. These inspections check for compliance with fire safety laws (e.g., smoke detectors in every bedroom), proper sanitation, and structural integrity.
2. Maximum Occupancy Limits: Fort Lauderdale regulates the number of occupants allowed in an STR based on square footage and the number of bedrooms to prevent overuse of the property and reduce neighborhood disturbances.