St. Petersburg, Florida Short Term Rental Regulations

City Code of Ordinances

For properties within the City of St. Petersburg, short-term rentals are only allowed up to three times within any consecutive 365-day period unless the property is within a zoning district that allows the hotel or motel use or a special "overlay" approval has been obtained.
The popularity of St. Petersburg continues to grow with its vibrant downtown life and proximity to some of the best beaches in the country. As popularity grows, the number of short-term rentals has also been increasing, and investors need to be sure that they are investing in areas that permit rentals under 30 days. Unfortunately, short-term rentals are only allowed with condo hotels and single-family homes located in unincorporated areas, a small section of Gulfport, and specially zoned areas of St. Pete Beach.

To maintain the quality and extend the life of the existing housing stock, stabilize neighborhoods, and protect the public, the City of St. Petersburg administers a code compliance process. This process is governed by the Florida Statutes Chapter 162, City Code Chapter 9, and related legal principles, including case law, due process, and private property rights. 

Business License Requirements

Anyone who wishes to operate a Saint Petersburg short-term rental will need to provide proof of a Business Tax Certificate Receipt and their DBPR license.

Building and Housing Standards

St. Petersburg, Florida enforces rules and regulations specifying minimum construction, design, and maintenance standards for buildings, including habitability, health, and safety regulations. Certain regulations applicable to residential and non-residential uses may be relevant to your listing. You should consult Chapter 8 of St. Petersburg, Florida – Code of Ordinances or contact the City's Building Department for more information.

Tourist and Local Taxes

Guests who book in Pinellas County, FL, will pay the following taxes as part of their reservation:

• Pinellas County Tourist Development Tax: 6% of the listing price, including any cleaning fee for reservations 182 nights and shorter. For detailed information, please visit the Pinellas County Tax Collector website.

Other Rules

The laws and regulations that govern the short-term rental market are constantly changing. As demand remains high, more and more cities and vacation destinations will continue to take steps to protect residential neighborhoods and guests alike. For now, check the City's ordinances and state laws before getting started and revisit them often as regulations can change at any time.