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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Fort Myers, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term/vacation rentals are subject to City zoning and local business tax rules; operators must confirm zoning at the property and obtain required local business tax receipts (BTR). Municipal code fee schedule includes lodging/tourist camp classifications (per bedroom).

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Confirm property zoning with the Zoning Division; 2) Apply for a City Business Tax Receipt (BTR) using the City’s Business Tax application/checklists; 3) Complete any required inspections/approvals coordinated with zoning and pay applicable BTR fees as listed in Chapter 82.

Regulatory Updates — Fort Myers

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedApril 2023

Post-Hurricane Ian STR Permitting Requirements

Fort Myers updated its STR permitting process following Hurricane Ian to require proof of building permit completion and final inspection sign-off for all properties that sustained damage and were subsequently repaired or rebuilt. This applies to both initial license applications and annual renewals.

PassedJuly 2023

Florida DBPR Vacation Rental Licensing Active

All Fort Myers vacation rentals must maintain a current Florida DBPR vacation rental license. Post-Ian, the DBPR worked with Lee County to streamline inspection scheduling for the large number of properties entering or re-entering the licensed vacation rental market following rebuilding.

Official source
PassedJanuary 2024

Lee County Tourist Development Tax Compliance

Lee County's tax collector increased outreach to identify vacation rental operators in the Fort Myers area who are not registered for the tourist development tax, including many operators who entered the market during the post-Ian recovery period.

Official Resources

Official Fort Myers STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade group providing compliance resources for Southwest Florida operators including Fort Myers, and defending SB 280 preemption rights in Lee County.

Fort Myers Chamber of CommerceLocal

Tracks local business regulations and post-Ian recovery developments affecting the Fort Myers STR market. 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 Southwest Florida markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Fort Myers, FL?
Short-term/vacation rentals are subject to City zoning and local business tax rules; operators must confirm zoning at the property and obtain required local business tax receipts (BTR). Municipal code fee schedule includes lodging/tourist camp classifications (per bedroom).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Fort Myers?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Fort Myers. 1) Confirm property zoning with the Zoning Division; 2) Apply for a City Business Tax Receipt (BTR) using the City’s Business Tax application/checklists; 3) Complete any required inspections/approvals coordinated with zoning and pay applicable BTR fees as listed in Chapter 82.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Fort Myers?
1) Confirm property zoning with the Zoning Division; 2) Apply for a City Business Tax Receipt (BTR) using the City’s Business Tax application/checklists; 3) Complete any required inspections/approvals coordinated with zoning and pay applicable BTR fees as listed in Chapter 82.
How did Hurricane Ian affect short-term rental operations in Fort Myers?
Hurricane Ian (Category 4, September 28, 2022) caused severe damage across Fort Myers and Lee County. Many vacation rental properties were damaged or destroyed, and the STR market contracted significantly in the immediate aftermath. The causeway to Fort Myers Beach (a separate jurisdiction on Estero Island) was damaged, further disrupting the coastal rental market. Recovery has been substantial through 2024–2025, but operators with rebuilt properties must ensure all construction has received city building permits and DBPR inspection clearance.
What permits are required for a Fort Myers vacation rental?
Operators need a Florida DBPR vacation rental license (biennial renewal with safety inspection), a Lee County tourist development tax registration (5%), and compliance with any applicable city of Fort Myers business tax receipt requirements. Post-Ian rebuilt or repaired properties must provide documentation of completed building permits. All DBPR license numbers must appear in online listings.
Is Fort Myers the same jurisdiction as Fort Myers Beach for STR purposes?
No — Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach are separate municipalities. The City of Fort Myers is an inland city on the Caloosahatchee River. Fort Myers Beach is a separate town on Estero Island (a barrier island), which has its own STR regulations and was among the most severely impacted areas in Lee County from Hurricane Ian. Operators should confirm which municipality governs their specific property before applying for permits.
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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