Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Captiva, FL

Airbnb listings are allowed in Captiva, FL, but with restrictions. Property owners on RSC-2 zoned lots in Captiva Island may not rent or lease for periods of less than seven days, and may not rent or lease units under more than one lease at a time. Redevelopment of nonconforming hotels and motels is restricted to an average unit size of 550 square feet and a density limit of three units per acre. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Property owners on RSC-2 zoned lots in Captiva Island may not rent or lease for periods of less than seven days, and may not rent or lease units under more than one lease at a time. Redevelopment of nonconforming hotels and motels is restricted to an average unit size of 550 square feet and a density limit of three units per acre.

No permit is currently required to operate a short-term rental in Captiva.

Vrbo is permitted in Captiva, FL under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Captiva are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

The most recent tracked change in Captiva is "Lee County STR Permit Program" (2023-03-01, status: passed). County requires annual STR permit ($100/year) for all unincorporated county properties including Captiva Island; safety compliance and county business license required. See the regulatory updates section on this page for the full history.

Yes. Florida's SB 280 preemption prevents Lee County from banning STRs on Captiva. An annual Lee County STR permit ($100/year) is required, along with safety compliance and county business license.

Florida state sales tax (6%), Lee County Tourist Development Tax (5%), and any applicable county surtax. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue for a Business Partner Number before your first rental.

Captiva Island was severely impacted by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. Lee County issued updated permitting guidance in 2024; fully restored and rebuilt properties are eligible for new STR permits meeting current building codes.