Short-Term Vacation Rentals

The Town and some of its residents are concerned about the increasing number of vacation rentals, safety and welfare of occupants, and negative impacts caused by some of them.  The occupants of vacation rentals, due to the transient nature of their occupancy, are unfamiliar with local hurricane evacuation plans, the location of fire extinguishers, exit routes, pool and home safety features, and other similar safety measures that would ordinarily be provided to guests in traditional lodging establishments, i.e., hotels and motels. If left unregulated, the occupants of vacation rentals can disturb the quiet enjoyment of the neighborhood and create numerous secondary impacts, including noise, traffic, and a greater demand on public services.

The Town has reached out to neighboring municipalities to inquire about their ordinances and other policies to mitigate the Town’s concerns.  The Town has come up with an ordinance and registration form.  The intent of the vacation rental ordinance and regulations is to preserve the integrity of residential areas and neighborhoods and corresponding property values, while also protecting the health, safety, and welfare of residents, occupants, and property owners.

On July 11, 2023, the Town Council approved Ordinance 2023-03 on first reading. The ordinance was approved on September 12, 2023.

You can find more information about the legislative background of short-term vacation rentals in Florida here.