Florida Vacation Rental Agreement Overview
Florida is one of the largest vacation rental markets in the U.S. All short-term rentals must be licensed through the Florida DBPR. Hosts must collect 6% state sales tax plus county-specific tourist development tax. Popular markets include Orlando, Miami, the Florida Keys, and Destin.
State DBPR license required for all STRs
STR license
6% state sales tax + 2-6% county tourist tax
Occupancy tax / TOT
No statewide limit
Maximum stay
HOAs may restrict; 2011 law grandfathered existing
HOA restrictions
Florida Short-Term Rental Requirements
Operating a vacation rental in Florida requires compliance with state and local regulations. Here are the key requirements for FL short-term rental hosts:
Important: Check Local Florida Regulations
Short-term rental regulations in Florida can vary significantly by city and county. Always verify current requirements with your local government before listing your property. Regulations may include permit requirements, occupancy limits, parking rules, noise ordinances, and safety inspections.
- STR License/Permit: State DBPR license required for all STRs — check with your local city/county government
- Tax Registration: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect and remit occupancy taxes
- Safety Requirements: Working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and posted emergency exit routes
- Insurance: Obtain short-term rental or commercial liability insurance — standard homeowner's policies may not cover STR activity
- HOA/Condo Rules: HOAs may restrict; 2011 law grandfathered existing STRs — review your CC&Rs before listing
How to Fill Out a Florida Vacation Rental Agreement
Follow these steps to properly complete your Florida vacation rental agreement. Our template guides you through each section to ensure compliance with FL requirements.
Enter Host and Guest Information
Include the host's full legal name and contact information, and the primary guest's name, address, phone number, and email. The primary guest is responsible for all terms of the agreement.
Describe the Rental Property
Provide the complete Florida property address, property type, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, maximum occupancy, and included amenities (parking, pool, hot tub, Wi-Fi, kitchen, laundry).
Set Check-In/Check-Out and Rental Rates
Specify check-in date and time, check-out date and time, nightly rate, cleaning fee, Florida occupancy taxes, and total amount due. Include payment schedule and accepted payment methods.
Define Cancellation Policy and Damage Deposit
Establish cancellation tiers (full refund, partial refund, no refund deadlines), damage deposit amount, conditions for deductions, and refund timeline after checkout.
Include Florida House Rules
Set maximum occupancy, quiet hours, smoking policy, pet policy, parking instructions, pool/hot tub rules, trash procedures, and a no-parties/no-events clause.
Sign and Distribute
Both host and guest should sign and date the agreement. Electronic signatures are valid in Florida under the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act. Provide a copy to the guest before or at check-in.
Florida Occupancy Taxes & Fees
Florida imposes taxes on short-term accommodations that hosts must collect and remit. Here's a summary of the tax obligations for FL vacation rental operators:
| Tax / Fee | Rate / Amount |
|---|---|
| Occupancy / Lodging Tax | 6% state sales tax + 2-6% county tourist tax |
| STR License/Permit Fee | Varies by municipality |
| Business License | May be required — check local requirements |
| Platform Collection | Some platforms collect certain taxes automatically in FL |
Sample Florida Vacation Rental Agreement
Below is a preview of our Florida-specific vacation rental agreement.
STATE OF FLORIDA
VACATION RENTAL AGREEMENT
Short-Term Rental Contract
HOST / PROPERTY OWNER:
Name: [Host Name]
Address: [Florida Address]
GUEST:
Name: [Guest Name]
Address: [Guest Address]
RENTAL PROPERTY
Address: [Florida Property Address]
Check-in: [Date/Time] Check-out: [Date/Time]
Nightly Rate: $[Rate] Total: $[Total]
Florida Vacation Rental Agreement FAQ
Answers to common questions about Florida vacation rental agreements, short-term rental regulations, and host obligations.
Official Florida Resources
Use these official resources for Florida short-term rental tax registration, licensing, and regulatory guidance.
Create Your Florida Vacation Rental Agreement
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