Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Bay County?

**Yes**, unincorporated Bay County requires a Vacation Rental Registration. You need to register with the Planning & Zoning Department and obtain necessary state-level lodging licenses. The registration ensures compliance with local regulations. Operating without this registration may result in fines and penalties. The fee is $100.

What is the TOT tax rate in Bay County?

**5% TOT** is the Tourist Development Tax rate in Bay County. Hosts are responsible for collecting this tax from guests, in addition to state sales tax. You must remit these taxes to the appropriate local authorities regularly. Non-compliance can result in penalties and interest charges. Keep accurate records.

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bay County?

**Yes**, short-term rentals are generally allowed in unincorporated Bay County. However, you need to comply with registration and tax requirements. Be sure to adhere to specific occupancy limits based on the number of bedrooms in your rental property. Always verify zoning regulations before operating.

How much does an STR permit cost in Bay County?

**$100** is the cost of the Vacation Rental Registration in unincorporated Bay County. This fee is required to legally operate a short-term rental. You need to renew this registration periodically to maintain compliance. Ensure you submit the application and payment to the Planning & Zoning Department.

Can renters host on Airbnb in Bay County?

**No**, tenants are not permitted to host on Airbnb in unincorporated Bay County without the property owner's explicit consent. You must own the property or have written permission from the owner to operate a short-term rental. Violating this requirement can result in penalties.

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Regulation Details

Eligibility(8)

•Bay County allows STRs in the following property types: Single-family dwellings, Condominiums, Townhomes, Duplexes.
•Bay County: Your HOA can prohibit short-term rentals even if the city allows them. Check your CC&Rs before applying.
•Bay County prohibits STRs in the following property types: RV's, Tents, Boats.

Requirements(15)

•Bay County STR warning: Parking must be contained on-site; street parking for guests is often restricted in residential areas.
•Bay County requires STR registration. The permit is called "Vacation Rental Registration". Apply through Bay County Planning & Zoning.
•Bay County STR warning: You must have a 'Local Responsible Party' available 24/7 who can respond to the property within 60 minutes.

Application Process(8)

•Bay County STR permit - Step 1: State Licensing. Obtain a Public Lodging License from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Time: 2-4 weeks.

Fees & Costs(1)

•Bay County charges a registration fee of $100 (annual).

Taxes(3)

•Bay County: The 5% Tourist Development Tax (TDT) is separate from state sales tax and is collected locally.
•Florida has a state sales tax of 6% that applies to STR rentals.
•Bay County charges a Tourist Development Tax of 5%. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax.

Limits & Restrictions(1)

•Bay County: Maximum occupancy is strictly capped at 10 people regardless of house size, unless a higher limit is specifically approved by the Fire Marshal.

Safety Requirements(1)

•Bay County requires: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, fire inspection.

Penalties(1)

•Bay County enforces penalties: First offense: $250.

Exemptions(4)

•Bay County, FL: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
•Bay County: If your property is within Panama City Beach city limits, these county rules do NOT apply; you must follow the city's ordinance instead.
•Bay County exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals 30+ days (county).

Bay County

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Regulation Details

Eligibility(8)

Requirements(15)

Application Process(8)

Fees & Costs(1)

Taxes(3)

Limits & Restrictions(1)

Safety Requirements(1)

Penalties(1)

Exemptions(4)

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