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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Siesta Key, FL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are restricted to properties zoned Residential Multi-Family (RMF) on barrier islands like Siesta Key. In all other residential districts, leases must be for at least 30 days. Rentals must comply with Unified Development Code (UDC) Section 124-131.

Regulatory Updates — Siesta Key

Proposed and recent legislation

Under ReviewJuly 2025

Sarasota County STR Density Study on Siesta Key

Sarasota County commissioned a study examining STR density on Siesta Key following community complaints about neighborhood character, parking, and noise impacts. The study's findings are expected to inform whether the county pursues additional zoning-based restrictions within the SB 280 framework.

PassedJuly 2023

Florida DBPR Licensing and County Tax Requirements

All Siesta Key vacation rentals must maintain a Florida DBPR vacation rental license and register with the Sarasota County Tax Collector for tourist development tax collection. DBPR biennial inspections verify fire safety, pool barrier compliance, and occupancy standards.

Official source
PassedJanuary 2024

Sarasota County STR Registration Program

Sarasota County requires vacation rental operators in unincorporated areas (including Siesta Key) to register with the county, designate a 24/7 local contact, and comply with occupancy and nuisance standards. Annual renewal is required.

Official Resources

Official Siesta Key STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)Statewide

Statewide trade group monitoring Sarasota County's Siesta Key density study and defending SB 280 preemption rights against potential county-level restrictions.

Siesta Key Chamber of CommerceLocal

Represents Siesta Key's tourism and hospitality businesses. Tracks county STR regulatory developments and provides compliance resources for vacation rental operators on the key.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing regulatory monitoring for vacation rental managers in Sarasota County barrier island markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Siesta Key, FL?
Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are restricted to properties zoned Residential Multi-Family (RMF) on barrier islands like Siesta Key. In all other residential districts, leases must be for at least 30 days. Rentals must comply with Unified Development Code (UDC) Section 124-131.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Siesta Key?
No permit is currently required to operate a short-term rental in Siesta Key.
Is Siesta Key governed by the City of Sarasota or Sarasota County?
Siesta Key is an unincorporated community in Sarasota County — it has no city government of its own. Land use, STR permitting, and code enforcement are handled by Sarasota County rather than the City of Sarasota. This means operators follow Sarasota County ordinances, not city ordinances. The City of Sarasota governs the mainland urban area across the bay.
What permits are required for a Siesta Key vacation rental?
Operators need a Florida DBPR vacation rental license (biennial renewal with safety inspection), a Sarasota County STR registration (annual renewal with 24/7 local contact), and Sarasota County tourist development tax registration (5%). All license numbers must be displayed in online listings. Pool properties must comply with Florida's pool barrier safety requirements.
Is Siesta Key at risk of new STR restrictions?
Yes. Sarasota County's ongoing STR density study on Siesta Key is specifically examining whether the island's very high ratio of vacation rentals to total housing warrants additional regulatory action. If the study recommends density caps or zoning-based restrictions, the county could act within the limits permitted by SB 280. Operators and investors should monitor Sarasota County Commission proceedings for updates on the study's recommendations and any proposed ordinance changes.
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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