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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Holmes Beach, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are subject to zoning-based minimum stays: 30 days in R-1/R-1AA, 7 days in R-2/R-3/R-4, and daily in A-1. Regulations include mandatory occupancy limits, parking requirements, safety inspections, and the designation of an authorized agent.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply online via the CitizenServe Portal and pay the $545 initial application fee. 2. Submit required documents, including a notarized affidavit regarding DBPR licensing and tax remittance. 3. Schedule and pass a city safety inspection. Certificates must be renewed every two years.

Regulatory Updates — Holmes Beach

Proposed and recent legislation

Under ReviewNovember 2023

7-Day Minimum Stay Requirement

Holmes Beach enacted a 7-day minimum stay requirement for short-term rentals, arguing that this is permissible under SB 280 as a regulation of the manner of rental rather than a prohibition. The ordinance has been challenged by STR operators who argue it effectively eliminates the short-term rental market for weekend and midweek stays.

PassedFebruary 2024

Strict Noise and Occupancy Enforcement Program

Holmes Beach implemented a dedicated STR enforcement program with officers empowered to issue immediate citations for noise violations, occupancy cap breaches, and parking violations at vacation rental properties. Fines range from $500 to $5,000 per violation.

ProposedApril 2025

City Lobbying for SB 280 Amendment

Holmes Beach joined Florida municipalities lobbying the state legislature to amend SB 280 to allow cities to impose minimum stay requirements, density caps, and other restrictions currently prevented by the preemption framework.

Official Resources

Official Holmes Beach STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade group that has challenged Holmes Beach's minimum stay ordinance and other restrictions as violations of SB 280. Provides compliance resources for Anna Maria Island operators.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of CommerceLocal

Represents the island's tourism and business community. Navigates the tension between full-time resident pressure for restrictions and tourism industry reliance on vacation rentals.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association monitoring the Holmes Beach litigation and providing regulatory guidance for operators on Florida's most contentious STR battleground island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Holmes Beach, FL?
Short-term rentals are subject to zoning-based minimum stays: 30 days in R-1/R-1AA, 7 days in R-2/R-3/R-4, and daily in A-1. Regulations include mandatory occupancy limits, parking requirements, safety inspections, and the designation of an authorized agent.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Holmes Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Holmes Beach. 1. Apply online via the CitizenServe Portal and pay the $545 initial application fee. 2. Submit required documents, including a notarized affidavit regarding DBPR licensing and tax remittance. 3. Schedule and pass a city safety inspection. Certificates must be renewed every two years.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Holmes Beach?
1. Apply online via the CitizenServe Portal and pay the $545 initial application fee. 2. Submit required documents, including a notarized affidavit regarding DBPR licensing and tax remittance. 3. Schedule and pass a city safety inspection. Certificates must be renewed every two years.
Does Holmes Beach have a 7-day minimum stay requirement for vacation rentals?
Holmes Beach enacted a 7-day minimum stay ordinance, but its legal status under Florida SB 280 is contested. SB 280 preempts cities from banning or imposing certain restrictions on STRs, and STR advocates have argued that a 7-day minimum effectively eliminates short-term rentals. The ordinance is under legal challenge. Operators should consult with a Florida real estate attorney to understand the current enforceability of the minimum stay rule before booking stays shorter than 7 days.
Is Anna Maria Island entirely in Holmes Beach?
No. Anna Maria Island contains three separate municipalities: the City of Anna Maria (north end), Holmes Beach (middle), and Bradenton Beach (south end). Each has its own STR ordinance, though all operate under the same Florida SB 280 preemption framework. Holmes Beach has been the most aggressive of the three in attempting to restrict STRs. Your property's location determines which city's ordinance applies. The island also falls within Manatee County's unincorporated areas at some edges.
What taxes apply to Holmes Beach vacation rental income?
Operators collect Florida state sales tax (6%) and Manatee County tourist development tax (5%), for a combined rate of approximately 11–12%. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit both state and Manatee County taxes on behalf of hosts in most cases. Direct-booking operators must register with the Florida Department of Revenue and the Manatee 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