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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Destin, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts (e.g., BRMU, CBR, CMU, HIMU, CBN). Occupancy is limited to 2 adults per bedroom plus 4 additional persons (max 24 total); properties must display an 18x18 inch sign with a city decal and have a local responsible party available within one hour.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit an annual application via the City’s online portal (MyGovernmentOnline) including property details, owner info, and a parking affidavit. 2) Pay the annual registration fee based on square footage ($500–$700). 3) Post a required 18x18 inch sign with a city-issued decal within 7 days of registration.

Regulatory Updates — Destin

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJuly 2023

Florida DBPR Licensing in Full Effect

All vacation rentals in Destin must maintain a current Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) vacation rental license. The license requires a biennial inspection covering fire safety, pool barriers, and occupancy compliance. Non-licensed properties are subject to fines.

Official source
PassedFebruary 2024

Okaloosa County Tourist Development Tax Compliance

Okaloosa County's tax collector actively monitors short-term rental listings to ensure all operators are registered for the 4% tourist development tax. Properties identified as operating without registration are contacted for back-tax collection.

PassedOctober 2024

City of Destin Noise Ordinance Update

Destin updated its noise ordinance to clarify enforcement procedures for vacation rental properties and establish a tiered fine structure: $250 for first offense, $500 for second, and $1,000 for third and subsequent violations within a 12-month period.

Official Resources

Official Destin STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade group defending SB 280 protections and educating Panhandle market operators on licensing and tax compliance.

Destin Chamber of CommerceLocal

Represents the Destin business community including tourism and vacation rental operators. Tracks local regulatory developments and provides permit compliance resources.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National professional association providing advocacy, compliance tools, and best-practice resources for vacation rental managers in coastal resort markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Destin, FL?
STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts (e.g., BRMU, CBR, CMU, HIMU, CBN). Occupancy is limited to 2 adults per bedroom plus 4 additional persons (max 24 total); properties must display an 18x18 inch sign with a city decal and have a local responsible party available within one hour.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Destin?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Destin. 1) Submit an annual application via the City’s online portal (MyGovernmentOnline) including property details, owner info, and a parking affidavit. 2) Pay the annual registration fee based on square footage ($500–$700). 3) Post a required 18x18 inch sign with a city-issued decal within 7 days of registration.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Destin?
1) Submit an annual application via the City’s online portal (MyGovernmentOnline) including property details, owner info, and a parking affidavit. 2) Pay the annual registration fee based on square footage ($500–$700). 3) Post a required 18x18 inch sign with a city-issued decal within 7 days of registration.
What permits are required to operate a vacation rental in Destin?
Operators need a Florida DBPR vacation rental license (renewed every two years after a safety inspection), must register to collect Okaloosa County tourist development tax (4%) and Florida sales tax, and should obtain any applicable city business tax receipt. Properties with pools must comply with Florida's pool safety requirements. All license and registration numbers must be displayed in online listings.
How does Destin's location near Eglin Air Force Base affect vacation rental regulations?
Eglin Air Force Base itself has no direct bearing on civilian vacation rental regulations in the City of Destin. However, parts of Okaloosa County near Eglin (particularly Niceville and Fort Walton Beach) are subject to noise contour restrictions in the county's land development code that could affect property permitting. Properties in the City of Destin proper are not typically within restricted contour zones.
What is the tourist development tax rate in Destin and how is it collected?
Okaloosa County imposes a 4% tourist development tax on all short-term rental income. This is collected in addition to Florida state sales tax (6%), bringing the total tax on rental receipts to approximately 10–11%. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit both state and county taxes on behalf of hosts in most Florida jurisdictions including Okaloosa County. Operators should confirm platform coverage and retain remittance records for annual tax filings.
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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