🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Pinellas County, FL

A Deep Dive into Your Area’s STR Updates—Helping You Navigate the Ever-Changing Rental Landscape.

Pinellas County Approves New Short-Term Rental Ordinance – Here’s How It Affects You

Pinellas County has approved a new ordinance that will impact short-term rentals in the unincorporated areas.

This ordinance follows feedback from communities about the need for stronger enforcement of issues like occupancy limits, quiet hours, and safety notices for guests.

Pinellas County has over 24,000 short-term rental properties, with the Tampa Bay area experiencing the highest demand for these rentals in the country. While they contribute significantly to the county’s tourism industry, local residents have expressed concerns about loud parties and disturbances, particularly in beachside communities.

Key Points to Know:

• Certificate of Use: Starting March 31, short-term rental owners who rent their property for less than 30 days and more than three times per year will need to apply for a Certificate of Use. This ensures properties meet minimum safety standards and helps keep the community safe.
• New Regulations:
  • Maximum Occupancy: Two guests per bedroom, plus two more in the common areas, with a total of 10 guests.
  • Parking Requirements: Owners are also required to provide one off-street parking space for every three guests.
  • Quiet Hours: Quiet hours will be enforced from 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. to help curb noise disturbances.
  • Safety Inspection: Properties must pass a $150 safety inspection before they can be certified.
• Annual Renewal: The Certificate of Use will cost $450 to renew every year, with deadlines to apply by May 31, June 30, or July 31, depending on your property's location.

Pinellas County Code Enforcement will handle compliance, so be sure to follow the new rules to avoid penalties.

🔹 What to Do:

1️⃣ Apply for your annual Certificate of Use beginning March 31, 2025.
2️⃣ Make sure your property passes the required safety inspection.
3️⃣ Don’t forget to renew your certificate each year and keep track of the application deadlines.

These new regulations aim to make short-term rental properties safer and more in line with community expectations. Property owners should take note of the new requirements and deadlines to stay compliant and avoid penalties.