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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Defuniak Springs, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term vacation rentals are allowed in Walton County only if registered under the Walton County Vacation Rental Registration Program; certain property types (most condominiums, some multifamily developments, and full-time homestead owner-occupied properties meeting the exemption criteria) are exempt. Registrants must provide required forms and interior/exterior sketches, designate a local responsible party or managing agent, comply with fire-life safety guidance (SWFD/Walton County standards), meet parking and solid-waste/occupancy requirements (maximum occupancy computed at 150 sq ft per person), and follow zoning/compatibility standards as indicated by the county GIS and ordinances.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) and submit required documents including the Application Checklist, Affidavit of Compliance, Agent Affidavit, and interior/exterior sketches. 2) Pay the registration fee (e.g., $300 for initial/annual individual registration) and provide required postings and notices. 3) Maintain compliance by renewing annually within the registration window (April 1 to May 31) and following fire-safety and occupancy standards.

Official Resources

Official Defuniak Springs STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Defuniak Springs, FL?
Short-term vacation rentals are allowed in Walton County only if registered under the Walton County Vacation Rental Registration Program; certain property types (most condominiums, some multifamily developments, and full-time homestead owner-occupied properties meeting the exemption criteria) are exempt. Registrants must provide required forms and interior/exterior sketches, designate a local responsible party or managing agent, comply with fire-life safety guidance (SWFD/Walton County standards), meet parking and solid-waste/occupancy requirements (maximum occupancy computed at 150 sq ft per person), and follow zoning/compatibility standards as indicated by the county GIS and ordinances.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Defuniak Springs?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Defuniak Springs. 1) Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) and submit required documents including the Application Checklist, Affidavit of Compliance, Agent Affidavit, and interior/exterior sketches. 2) Pay the registration fee (e.g., $300 for initial/annual individual registration) and provide required postings and notices. 3) Maintain compliance by renewing annually within the registration window (April 1 to May 31) and following fire-safety and occupancy standards.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Defuniak Springs?
1) Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) and submit required documents including the Application Checklist, Affidavit of Compliance, Agent Affidavit, and interior/exterior sketches. 2) Pay the registration fee (e.g., $300 for initial/annual individual registration) and provide required postings and notices. 3) Maintain compliance by renewing annually within the registration window (April 1 to May 31) and following fire-safety and occupancy standards.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction