Florida continues to set records for the number of visitors, with the most recent record being set in the third quarter of 2023. An estimated total of 35.1 million people visited the state between July and September of 2023.
Tourists need a place to stay when in Florida, so vacation rental owners can make a steady income. Before offering your property as a short-term rental, there are legal considerations for vacation rentals you need to know.
Keep reading to get an update on local regulations in Largo, Florida.
Zoning and Local Regulations
Largo, Florida has specific zoning and local laws that vacation property owners must follow. Regulations can range from one area in the city to another.
Consult with zoning authorities to understand the exact rules for your property.
This is one of the most important legal considerations for vacation rentals, especially if you are an accidental landlord. It's important to avoid legal trouble when you are just starting.
Licensing
Licensing is necessary for running a vacation rental business. The law requires public lodging establishments and new owners to obtain a license before operating in Florida. You can obtain a license through the local government.
The specific requirements and fees for getting a business license vary. Contact the city or county to ask about the necessary steps.
Taxes
When operating a short-term rental in Largo, there are tax-related legal considerations to know.
Vacation rentals are subject to taxes. Vacation rental owners must collect applicable taxes from guests and remit them to proper authoritative channels. Failure to comply with tax laws can lead to penalties and fines.
Familiarize yourself with the current tax rate and reporting requirements.
If you hire a property management company, they will already know the laws regarding taxes.
Accessibility
Meeting compliance with accessibility measures is important for short-term rental owners.
The ADA is a federal law prohibiting discrimination due to a disability. It requires public accommodations to be accessible to people with disabilities.
Private residences are typically exempt from these requirements. Vacation rental properties, however, might still be subject to certain obligations.
The accessibility measures you take should be outlined on your vacation property listing. This will help entice guests who might pass on your property for other reasons.
Determine your obligations as an owner by consulting with legal experts familiar with the local laws. While you can hire a lawyer, a property manager will know the laws in the area just as well.
Legal Considerations for Vacation Rentals: What You Should Know
When you open your property up as a vacation rental, it's important to follow legal considerations for vacation rentals. The laws are demanding and can change at a moment's notice.
If you struggle to keep up with the local laws, our property management team can help. At PMI Clearwater, we provide the best full-service experience in vacation rental management for property owners and guests.
By following the laws, we can provide quality services without fear of legal complications. Contact us today to get the best local experience.
