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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Sarasota, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Rentals are restricted to a minimum stay of 7 full days and nights. Occupancy is capped at 10 persons in RSF zones and 12 in RMF zones (calculated as 2 per bedroom plus 2). On-site parking is required, and the registration number must be displayed in all advertising.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit an Initial Application packet via the City’s portal or mail with a $500 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a mandatory City safety inspection. 3) Renew the certificate annually between July 1 and October 1 for a $350 fee.

Regulatory Updates — Sarasota

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedNovember 2023

STR Zoning Restrictions in Residential Districts

Sarasota enacted amendments to its zoning code that restrict short-term rental activity in lower-density residential zones, effectively limiting new STR activity to areas with resort, tourist-commercial, or higher-density residential zoning. Existing STRs in restricted zones may continue operating but face compliance scrutiny.

PassedFebruary 2024

STR Registration and Inspection Program

The city requires all vacation rental operators to register annually, undergo a safety inspection, and pay an annual registration fee. The program is administered by the city's development services department with cross-referencing of state DBPR records.

Under ReviewJuly 2025

Siesta Key Community STR Density Study

Sarasota County (which governs Siesta Key as an unincorporated barrier island) commissioned a study on STR density on Siesta Key following community complaints. Results may inform further county-level restrictions on STR permits in barrier island residential zones.

Official Resources

Official Sarasota STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade association defending SB 280 preemption rights against zoning-based restrictions and providing compliance resources for Sarasota-area operators.

Sarasota Chamber of CommerceLocal

Tracks local business and regulatory developments including STR ordinance changes affecting the Sarasota tourism and hospitality sector.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing regulatory monitoring and professional standards guidance for vacation rental managers in West Coast Florida markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Sarasota, FL?
Rentals are restricted to a minimum stay of 7 full days and nights. Occupancy is capped at 10 persons in RSF zones and 12 in RMF zones (calculated as 2 per bedroom plus 2). On-site parking is required, and the registration number must be displayed in all advertising.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Sarasota?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Sarasota. 1) Submit an Initial Application packet via the City’s portal or mail with a $500 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a mandatory City safety inspection. 3) Renew the certificate annually between July 1 and October 1 for a $350 fee.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Sarasota?
1) Submit an Initial Application packet via the City’s portal or mail with a $500 fee. 2) Schedule and pass a mandatory City safety inspection. 3) Renew the certificate annually between July 1 and October 1 for a $350 fee.
Are short-term rentals allowed throughout Sarasota, or only in certain zones?
Not throughout the city. Sarasota has enacted zoning amendments that limit short-term rental activity in lower-density residential zones. Properties in tourist-commercial, resort, or higher-density zones are generally compliant. Owners of properties in residential zones should verify their specific zoning designation and whether their STR use was established before applicable restrictions took effect. Operating in a non-compliant zone can result in daily fines.
What is the difference between the City of Sarasota and Sarasota County for STR rules?
The City of Sarasota governs its incorporated area, while Sarasota County governs unincorporated areas including Siesta Key, Osprey, and North Port (which has its own city government). Siesta Key — one of the most active STR markets in the area — is under Sarasota County jurisdiction, not city jurisdiction, and is subject to a separate county ordinance. Operators should confirm which government entity regulates their property.
What taxes apply to Sarasota short-term rental income?
Operators must collect Florida state sales tax (6%) and Sarasota County's tourist development tax (5% for properties in the county; 5% for properties in Sarasota city with county jurisdiction applying). Total effective tax rate is typically around 11–12%. Florida DBPR vacation rental license and annual renewal are also required. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit Florida state and most local taxes on behalf of hosts.
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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