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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Rosemary Beach, FL

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs must register annually, maintain a Florida DBPR license, and designate a local responsible party reachable within one hour. Occupancy is limited to 1 person per 150 sq. ft. of gross living area, and properties must meet specific off-street parking standards and safety requirements (e.g., smoke alarms and balcony inspections for 3+ story units).

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain required state licenses (DBPR vacation rental dwelling license and Florida Dept of Revenue/TDT registration). 2. Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) submitting a maximum occupancy calculation, parking sketch, and agent affidavit. 3. Pay the annual fee and attest to compliance via a signed affidavit.

Official Resources

Official Rosemary Beach STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Rosemary Beach, FL?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Rosemary Beach, FL, but with restrictions. STRs must register annually, maintain a Florida DBPR license, and designate a local responsible party reachable within one hour. Occupancy is limited to 1 person per 150 sq. ft. of gross living area, and properties must meet specific off-street parking standards and safety requirements (e.g., smoke alarms and balcony inspections for 3+ story units). A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Rosemary Beach, FL?
STRs must register annually, maintain a Florida DBPR license, and designate a local responsible party reachable within one hour. Occupancy is limited to 1 person per 150 sq. ft. of gross living area, and properties must meet specific off-street parking standards and safety requirements (e.g., smoke alarms and balcony inspections for 3+ story units).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Rosemary Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Rosemary Beach. 1. Obtain required state licenses (DBPR vacation rental dwelling license and Florida Dept of Revenue/TDT registration). 2. Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) submitting a maximum occupancy calculation, parking sketch, and agent affidavit. 3. Pay the annual fee and attest to compliance via a signed affidavit.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Rosemary Beach?
1. Obtain required state licenses (DBPR vacation rental dwelling license and Florida Dept of Revenue/TDT registration). 2. Apply online via the Walton County portal (https://apply.mywcfl.rentals) submitting a maximum occupancy calculation, parking sketch, and agent affidavit. 3. Pay the annual fee and attest to compliance via a signed affidavit.
Is Vrbo legal in Rosemary Beach, FL?
Vrbo is permitted in Rosemary Beach, FL under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Rosemary Beach?
Short-term rental hosts in Rosemary Beach are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Rosemary Beach?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Rosemary Beach. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction