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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Fernandina Beach, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals ("resort rentals") require a City-issued Resort Rental Dwelling Permit (RRDP) and are limited to properties zoned R-3 (High Density Residential) or R-1/R-2 properties that maintain grandfathered status from before October 3, 2000 (no lapse >180 days). Operators must display the current RRDP number in all advertising, maintain a 24/7 local contact who can respond in person within 30 minutes, submit annual life/safety inspections, comply with parking (one off-street space per four guests), participate in city roll-out/roll-back trash service (unless exempt), and hold required State (DBPR) and County (tourist development/bed tax) registrations.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Obtain prerequisite licenses: Florida DBPR public lodging license, Florida Department of Revenue Sales Tax ID, Nassau County Tourist Development Tax registration, and a City Local Business Tax Receipt; 2) Submit the RRDP application packet (including inspection checklist, floor plan, and proof of prerequisites) to the Building Department; 3) Pay fees ($300 new, $200 renewal) upon issuance and complete annual renewals by September 30.

Regulatory Updates — Fernandina Beach

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJune 2023

Fernandina Beach STR Registration Program

The City of Fernandina Beach requires all vacation rental operators to obtain a city business license, pass a safety inspection, designate a 24/7 local contact, and comply with occupancy and noise standards. Annual renewal is required.

PassedApril 2024

Nassau County Tourist Development Tax Compliance

Nassau County increased outreach to identify vacation rental operators on Amelia Island who are not registered for the tourist development tax. All operators must collect and remit the 5% county tax.

PassedJanuary 2023

Historic District Preservation Standards

The City of Fernandina Beach's Historic District Board requires review of physical modifications to structures within the designated historic district. STR operators undertaking renovations must ensure exterior modifications comply with preservation standards.

Official Resources

Official Fernandina Beach STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade group defending SB 280 preemption rights and providing compliance resources for Nassau County and Amelia Island operators.

Amelia Island Chamber of CommerceLocal

Tracks local tourism and business regulations including STR ordinance changes on Amelia Island. Provides compliance resources for vacation rental operators.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing regulatory monitoring and professional standards for vacation rental managers in Northeast Florida coastal markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Fernandina Beach, FL?
Short-term rentals ("resort rentals") require a City-issued Resort Rental Dwelling Permit (RRDP) and are limited to properties zoned R-3 (High Density Residential) or R-1/R-2 properties that maintain grandfathered status from before October 3, 2000 (no lapse >180 days). Operators must display the current RRDP number in all advertising, maintain a 24/7 local contact who can respond in person within 30 minutes, submit annual life/safety inspections, comply with parking (one off-street space per four guests), participate in city roll-out/roll-back trash service (unless exempt), and hold required State (DBPR) and County (tourist development/bed tax) registrations.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Fernandina Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Fernandina Beach. 1) Obtain prerequisite licenses: Florida DBPR public lodging license, Florida Department of Revenue Sales Tax ID, Nassau County Tourist Development Tax registration, and a City Local Business Tax Receipt; 2) Submit the RRDP application packet (including inspection checklist, floor plan, and proof of prerequisites) to the Building Department; 3) Pay fees ($300 new, $200 renewal) upon issuance and complete annual renewals by September 30.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Fernandina Beach?
1) Obtain prerequisite licenses: Florida DBPR public lodging license, Florida Department of Revenue Sales Tax ID, Nassau County Tourist Development Tax registration, and a City Local Business Tax Receipt; 2) Submit the RRDP application packet (including inspection checklist, floor plan, and proof of prerequisites) to the Building Department; 3) Pay fees ($300 new, $200 renewal) upon issuance and complete annual renewals by September 30.
What permits are required for an Amelia Island vacation rental?
Operators in Fernandina Beach need a Florida DBPR vacation rental license (biennial renewal), a City of Fernandina Beach business license (annual renewal with safety inspection and local contact), and Nassau County tourist development tax registration (5%). Properties in the historic district that undergo physical modifications need Historic District Board review. Unincorporated Nassau County properties (outside city limits) follow a separate county permit process.
Is all of Amelia Island in Fernandina Beach?
No. Amelia Island extends beyond Fernandina Beach city limits. The Amelia Island Plantation and Omni Amelia Island Resort area on the southern end of the island is in unincorporated Nassau County, not the City of Fernandina Beach. Those properties follow Nassau County regulations rather than city ordinances. When operating or purchasing on Amelia Island, always confirm whether your address is within city limits or in the unincorporated county.
What taxes apply to Fernandina Beach short-term rental income?
Operators collect Florida state sales tax (6%) and Nassau County tourist development tax (5%), for a combined rate of approximately 11–12%. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit both state and Nassau County taxes on behalf of hosts. Direct-booking operators must register with the Florida DOR and Nassau County Tax Collector independently.
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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