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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Longboat Key, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

The Town allows rentals but limits short-term rentals in residentially zoned properties: unless a property is 'grandfathered' as a tourism use or in a tourism-zoned district, the minimum rental period for residentially zoned properties is at least 30 consecutive calendar days (one month) or longer; the Residential Rental Registry applies to residentially zoned properties that rent for less than six months and requires life/safety inspections, designation of a responsible party, emergency contacts, and the rental certificate number to be included in advertisements. Violations carry daily fines and possible liens.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete the Residential Rental Registration application online or in-person at Town Hall and obtain the required Business Tax Receipt; 2) Pay the stated fee to the Town Clerk; 3) Schedule and complete a Rental Safety (life/safety) inspection with Code Enforcement; after an approved inspection the Town issues the Residential Rental Certificate (certificate valid for two years). (Fees are stated on the Town page: e.g., Residentially Zoned Property with a D2-BTR $200 initial / $150 renewal; D1-BTR & DBPR license $50 initial / $25 renewal.)

Regulatory Updates — Longboat Key

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedNovember 2024

FL SB 280 Compliance Lawsuit Outcome Affirmed

Following litigation challenging Longboat Key's residential zone STR restrictions, a court affirmed that the Town's density limits constitute permissible 'manner and place' regulations under SB 280 rather than a prohibited ban.

Under ReviewJanuary 2025

Town Commission Rezoning Proposal for Residential STR Density

Longboat Key's Commission reviewed a proposal to further reduce STR density in non-resort residential zones by tightening minimum spacing requirements between permitted STR properties.

PassedJune 2024

Permit Renewal with Complaint History Review

Longboat Key updated its STR permit renewal process to include a review of the property's complaint history, with renewals potentially denied or conditioned on noise and occupancy compliance improvements.

Official Resources

Official Longboat Key STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Florida's statewide vacation rental trade group monitoring Longboat Key STR ordinances and SB 280 compliance in Manatee and Sarasota County coastal markets.

Florida RealtorsStatewide

Statewide real estate association that has been actively engaged in Longboat Key STR litigation and legislation, advocating for property owner rights under SB 280.

Longboat Key Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local business organization representing Longboat Key's hospitality and real estate economy, including vacation rental operators navigating the Town's evolving STR framework.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Longboat Key, FL?
The Town allows rentals but limits short-term rentals in residentially zoned properties: unless a property is 'grandfathered' as a tourism use or in a tourism-zoned district, the minimum rental period for residentially zoned properties is at least 30 consecutive calendar days (one month) or longer; the Residential Rental Registry applies to residentially zoned properties that rent for less than six months and requires life/safety inspections, designation of a responsible party, emergency contacts, and the rental certificate number to be included in advertisements. Violations carry daily fines and possible liens.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Longboat Key?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Longboat Key. 1) Complete the Residential Rental Registration application online or in-person at Town Hall and obtain the required Business Tax Receipt; 2) Pay the stated fee to the Town Clerk; 3) Schedule and complete a Rental Safety (life/safety) inspection with Code Enforcement; after an approved inspection the Town issues the Residential Rental Certificate (certificate valid for two years). (Fees are stated on the Town page: e.g., Residentially Zoned Property with a D2-BTR $200 initial / $150 renewal; D1-BTR & DBPR license $50 initial / $25 renewal.)
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Longboat Key?
1) Complete the Residential Rental Registration application online or in-person at Town Hall and obtain the required Business Tax Receipt; 2) Pay the stated fee to the Town Clerk; 3) Schedule and complete a Rental Safety (life/safety) inspection with Code Enforcement; after an approved inspection the Town issues the Residential Rental Certificate (certificate valid for two years). (Fees are stated on the Town page: e.g., Residentially Zoned Property with a D2-BTR $200 initial / $150 renewal; D1-BTR & DBPR license $50 initial / $25 renewal.)
Can Longboat Key ban STRs?
No. Florida's SB 280 prevents a total ban. However, Longboat Key has pursued aggressive density restrictions and permit conditions that effectively limit the market. The Town has been repeatedly challenged in court for pushing the boundaries of what SB 280 allows.
Why is Longboat Key considered higher risk than other Florida beach towns?
Longboat Key has one of the most organized and politically active resident communities opposed to STRs in Florida. The Town has a history of STR litigation and continues to propose tighter density caps. SB 280 is the primary protection operators have, and it may not prevent all proposed restrictions.
What happens if my Longboat Key permit is up for renewal and I have complaints on record?
Longboat Key now reviews complaint history at renewal. A pattern of noise, occupancy, or parking violations can result in a conditional renewal with added requirements or, in serious cases, a denial. Maintaining a clean complaint record is essential for permit continuity.
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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