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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Delray Beach, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are subject to the City of Delray Beach Business Tax Receipt requirement; the Business Tax Receipt process explicitly includes a Zoning Certificate of Use. The cited official pages do not state detailed occupancy caps, minimum-night stays, or primary-residence rules on the referenced pages.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Register and apply online through the City’s eServices portal using the Business Tax Receipt application. 2) The application process includes obtaining a Zoning Certificate of Use as part of the BTR review; submit required information and track status via eServices. 3) Once approved the Business Tax Receipt is emailed; contact the Business Tax Receipts office for questions (phone/email on the official BTR page).

Regulatory Updates — Delray Beach

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedOctober 2024

Zoning Certificate of Use Process Clarified for STRs

Delray Beach clarified the Zoning Certificate of Use process for STR operators, specifying which zones permit transient rental use and what documentation is required at application, reducing processing delays.

PassedJune 2024

Business Tax Receipt Renewal Compliance Sweep

The City conducted a compliance sweep for STR operators with lapsed Business Tax Receipts, issuing citations and ordering rental activity suspended until current BTR was obtained.

PassedFebruary 2024

FL SB 280 Compliance Review Completed

Delray Beach confirmed its BTR and Zoning Certificate requirements comply with SB 280 as manner-and-place regulations, maintaining enforcement authority without legal exposure.

Official Resources

Official Delray Beach STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Florida's statewide vacation rental trade group monitoring Delray Beach STR requirements and SB 280 compliance in the Palm Beach County coastal market.

Florida RealtorsStatewide

Statewide real estate association advocating for property owner rights under SB 280 and tracking Delray Beach STR regulatory developments.

Delray Beach Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local business organization representing Delray Beach's hospitality and real estate economy, monitoring STR compliance requirements and their impact on the city's coastal tourism market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Delray Beach, FL?
Short-term rentals are subject to the City of Delray Beach Business Tax Receipt requirement; the Business Tax Receipt process explicitly includes a Zoning Certificate of Use. The cited official pages do not state detailed occupancy caps, minimum-night stays, or primary-residence rules on the referenced pages.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Delray Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Delray Beach. 1) Register and apply online through the City’s eServices portal using the Business Tax Receipt application. 2) The application process includes obtaining a Zoning Certificate of Use as part of the BTR review; submit required information and track status via eServices. 3) Once approved the Business Tax Receipt is emailed; contact the Business Tax Receipts office for questions (phone/email on the official BTR page).
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Delray Beach?
1) Register and apply online through the City’s eServices portal using the Business Tax Receipt application. 2) The application process includes obtaining a Zoning Certificate of Use as part of the BTR review; submit required information and track status via eServices. 3) Once approved the Business Tax Receipt is emailed; contact the Business Tax Receipts office for questions (phone/email on the official BTR page).
What is a Zoning Certificate of Use and why do I need it for my Delray Beach STR?
A Zoning Certificate of Use is a city-issued document confirming that your property's zone permits the proposed use — in this case, transient vacation rental. It must be obtained before or alongside your Business Tax Receipt. Each property is evaluated individually, so zone eligibility is not automatic.
Can Delray Beach ban STRs in my neighborhood?
No. Florida's SB 280 prevents Delray Beach from banning STRs outright. The city can require Business Tax Receipts, Zoning Certificates, and compliance with safety and conduct standards, but cannot prohibit STRs citywide.
What happens if my Business Tax Receipt lapses in Delray Beach?
Operating an STR without a current Business Tax Receipt is a violation that can result in citations and a suspension of rental activity. The city conducts compliance sweeps — keep your BTR current and set a renewal reminder before the expiration date.
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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