The City of Sarasota has introduced major updates to its short-term rental laws that will take effect in 2026. If you own or manage a vacation rental property in Sarasota County, these changes could significantly affect how you register, advertise, and operate your rental.
The new Sarasota vacation rental ordinance 25-5560 aims to improve safety, tax compliance, and neighborhood harmony—but it also introduces several new requirements that property owners and managers must meet to legally operate short-term rental properties.
Whether your property sits within Sarasota city limits or unincorporated Sarasota County, understanding the vacation rental registration and compliance process is crucial.
Gulf Coast Property Management has summarized the essentials so you can stay ahead of the curve, avoid fines, and ensure your vacation rental remains compliant under the latest Florida short-term rental laws 2025 and beyond.
Key Takeaways
New vacation rental certificates will be required for all short-term rental properties in Sarasota beginning in 2026, including annual renewals.
Registration through both local and state agencies, including the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the Sarasota County Tax Collector, will now be mandatory.
The ordinance enforces minimum safety standards, such as fire extinguishers, parking plans, and emergency contact requirements.
Short-term rental businesses within city limits must obtain a business tax receipt and certificate of registration before listing or advertising a property.
Property owners who fail to verify compliance or renew their certificate risk losing their ability to rent short-term under Florida Statutes.
Understanding the Sarasota Vacation Rental Certificate
Under Ordinance 25-5560, every vacation rental unit within Sarasota’s city limits must have a valid Sarasota Vacation Rental Certificate. This certificate confirms that your property meets minimum safety, zoning, and registration requirements.
You’ll need to provide several required documents during initial registration, including proof of ownership, floor plans, a parking plan, and emergency procedures identifying nearest shelters. The process ensures that each vacation rental covered operates safely and in accordance with applicable city ordinances.
The certificate must be renewed annually. Each initial or renewed certificate requires updated verification from local agencies and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation to ensure the short-term rental business remains compliant.
Sarasota County vs. City Limits: Know Where You Stand
The new Sarasota vacation rental regulations differ depending on whether your property is located within Sarasota city limits or unincorporated Sarasota County.
Within City Limits: Property owners must obtain both a City of Sarasota business tax receipt and a vacation rental certificate. The city also imposes stricter minimum rental period rules, zoning limits for single-family zoned residences, and parking area standards.
Outside City Limits (Sarasota County): While county rules are generally less restrictive, owners still need to register with the Sarasota County Tax Collector and ensure compliance with state licensing and local lodging taxes.
Understanding which jurisdiction your property falls under is key, as local regulations can affect whether you can rent short-term, how often, and in which residential single or multi-family zones.
Registration and Compliance: Step-by-Step
The 2026 guide to short-term rental regulations outlines a step-by-step process for landlords:
Obtain a DBPR Vacation Rental License: Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for your Florida state license. This verifies that your property meets state-level lodging requirements.
Register with Sarasota County: File for a certificate of registration with the Sarasota County Tax Collector and register for the tourist development tax (bed tax).
Apply for a Vacation Rental Certificate: Submit your application to the City of Sarasota, including your floor plan, proof of ownership, emergency contact details, and parking plan.
Obtain a Business Tax Receipt: This local business tax license proves you’re operating legally within city limits.
Verify Compliance and Safety: Ensure your rental unit meets minimum safety standards—working smoke alarms, accessible fire extinguishers, visible address numbers, and posted evacuation routes.
Once all steps are complete, you’ll receive your initial certificate to operate a short-term vacation rental. Each renewal will require confirmation that the property still meets all local and state regulations.
Property Managers and Responsible Parties
Every vacation rental business must designate a responsible party—either the property owner or a licensed property manager. This individual must be available 24/7 to respond to emergencies, noise complaints, or violations within one hour.
Professional property managers play an essential role in maintaining compliance, managing rental advertising, coordinating inspections, and ensuring adherence to local rules. Gulf Coast Property Management helps vacation rental owners handle these details, ensuring all applicable taxes and registration requirements are met.
Zoning and Minimum Rental Periods
Not all properties are eligible for short-term rentals under the new Sarasota vacation rental ordinance. Certain family zone districts and single-family residential zones may prohibit short-term rentals entirely.
In other districts, the city enforces a minimum rental period—for example, a seven-night minimum within certain residential single neighborhoods. Before renting, verify that your rental property is located in a zone that allows short-term rental operations.
Additionally, owner-occupied vacation rentals may qualify for an owner occupancy exemption, but these must still meet all minimum safety and local permit requirements.
Local Taxes and Lodging Compliance
The updated ordinance increases oversight on lodging tax compliance. All property owners must register with both the Florida Department of Revenue and the Sarasota County Tax Collector to collect and remit tourist development tax, sales tax, and local business tax.
These applicable taxes fund community development projects, emergency services, and tourism initiatives. Noncompliance may result in penalties, liens, or loss of licensing rights.
Remember to maintain accurate financial records—doing so may even qualify you for tax deductions related to your short-term rental business.
FAQs About the New Sarasota Vacation Rental Ordinance
1. Do I need a separate certificate for each rental unit?
Yes. Each vacation rental unit requires its own certificate of registration and must individually meet safety standards and zoning requirements.
2. What happens if I don’t register my property by the deadline?
Operating without a Sarasota vacation rental certificate or DBPR license can lead to fines, license suspension, or even an order to cease operations until full compliance is verified.
3. Are there exemptions for owner-occupied properties?
Certain owner-occupied vacation rentals may be eligible for limited exemptions under the Florida statutes, but they must still follow local laws, safety, and registration requirements.
How Gulf Coast Property Management Can Help
Navigating Florida short-term rental laws 2025 and the Sarasota vacation rental ordinance 25-5560 can feel overwhelming, especially with the detailed paperwork and compliance rules involved. Gulf Coast Property Management simplifies the process by managing registrations, overseeing safety inspections, handling lodging tax submissions, and ensuring your rental property remains compliant with state and local regulations.
If you’re a vacation rental owner in Sarasota, Manatee, Lee, or Charlotte County, our experienced team can help you obtain a vacation rental certificate, manage renewals, and stay compliant, so you can focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Visit Gulf Coast Property Management to learn more about our full-service solutions for vacation rental management and property compliance in Southwest Florida. Contact us today!
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