Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Key Largo, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Vacation rentals (less than 28 days) are permitted only in specific Monroe County land-use districts (e.g., SR, MU, UR, IS-V, OS) and generally prohibited in IS and URM districts. Operators must have a Special Vacation Rental Permit and a licensed manager available 24/7; rules include one parking space per bedroom, noise curfews (10 PM - 8 AM weekdays), and required posting of permit/contact info.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Verify property zoning allows vacation rentals and submit the 'Request for a Special Vacation Rental Permit (Initial)' with required documents (proof of ownership, site plan, floor plan, state/tax registrations) and a $490 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a Fire & Life Safety inspection. 3) Obtain a Special Vacation Rental Manager License ($110 fee) and ensure the manager is available 24/7.

Regulatory Updates — Key Largo

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJuly 2023

Monroe County STR Registration Active for Key Largo

Key Largo is primarily unincorporated Monroe County. All vacation rental operators must hold a Florida DBPR vacation rental license and register with Monroe County for tourist development tax collection. Monroe County's STR registration program applies to Key Largo properties.

Official source
PassedMay 2024

Monroe County Tourist Development Tax Enforcement

Monroe County increased compliance monitoring for vacation rental operators in Key Largo, focusing on properties listing on short-term rental platforms without a valid DBPR license or county tax registration.

PassedJanuary 2023

Overseas Heritage Trail and Environmental Use Regulations

Short-term rental operators in Key Largo must be aware of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary regulations and wastewater treatment compliance requirements that apply to all properties on the island, including those used as vacation rentals.

Official Resources

Official Key Largo 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 Monroe County Keys operators including Key Largo.

Key Largo Chamber of CommerceLocal

Represents local tourism and business interests in the Upper Keys including vacation rental operators. Tracks Monroe County STR regulatory developments.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association with member companies managing vacation rentals throughout the Florida Keys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Key Largo, FL?
Vacation rentals (less than 28 days) are permitted only in specific Monroe County land-use districts (e.g., SR, MU, UR, IS-V, OS) and generally prohibited in IS and URM districts. Operators must have a Special Vacation Rental Permit and a licensed manager available 24/7; rules include one parking space per bedroom, noise curfews (10 PM - 8 AM weekdays), and required posting of permit/contact info.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Key Largo?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Key Largo. 1) Verify property zoning allows vacation rentals and submit the 'Request for a Special Vacation Rental Permit (Initial)' with required documents (proof of ownership, site plan, floor plan, state/tax registrations) and a $490 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a Fire & Life Safety inspection. 3) Obtain a Special Vacation Rental Manager License ($110 fee) and ensure the manager is available 24/7.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Key Largo?
1) Verify property zoning allows vacation rentals and submit the 'Request for a Special Vacation Rental Permit (Initial)' with required documents (proof of ownership, site plan, floor plan, state/tax registrations) and a $490 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a Fire & Life Safety inspection. 3) Obtain a Special Vacation Rental Manager License ($110 fee) and ensure the manager is available 24/7.
Does Key Largo have its own city government?
No. Key Largo is an unincorporated community in Monroe County — it has no city government. Land use, permitting, and code enforcement are handled by Monroe County. STR operators follow Monroe County ordinances and deal with county offices rather than a city hall. This contrasts with Key West and Marathon, which are incorporated cities with their own ordinances.
What permits are required for a Key Largo vacation rental?
Operators need a Florida DBPR vacation rental license (biennial renewal with safety inspection), Monroe County STR registration, and Monroe County tourist development tax registration (5%). Key Largo properties may also need to comply with specific wastewater treatment standards required in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary area. All DBPR license numbers must appear in online listings.
What taxes apply to Key Largo short-term rental income?
Operators collect Florida state sales tax (6%) and Monroe County tourist development tax (5%), for a combined rate of approximately 11–12%. Monroe County also applies a municipal service taxing district surcharge in some areas. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit state and Monroe County taxes on behalf of hosts. Direct-booking operators must register with the Florida DOR and Monroe County Tax Collector independently.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Key Largo, FL?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

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