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

**Yes**, Destin requires a Short-Term Rental Business Tax Receipt & Registration. You need to obtain this permit annually, costing $500. This registration ensures compliance with local regulations, including occupancy limits. Operating without the required permit can result in fines, so ensuring you have the proper documentation is crucial.

What is the TOT tax rate in Destin?

**5% TOT** is the current transient occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Destin. Hosts are responsible for collecting this tax from guests and remitting it to the city. It is important to factor this tax into your pricing strategy to remain compliant. Check with the city for specific payment schedules.

Are short-term rentals allowed in Destin?

**Yes**, short-term rentals are allowed in Destin, but they are strictly regulated. You need to adhere to specific occupancy limits of 2 persons per bedroom plus 4 additional guests. Compliance with these regulations ensures you can operate your rental without facing penalties or legal issues within the city.

How much does an STR permit cost in Destin?

**The STR permit costs** $500 annually in Destin. This fee covers the Short-Term Rental Business Tax Receipt & Registration. The permit is mandatory for all short-term rental operators. Make sure to renew your permit each year to avoid any potential fines or penalties imposed by the city.

Can renters host on Airbnb in Destin?

**No**, tenants are not allowed to host on Airbnb in Destin. The regulations require that the property owner or authorized agent manage the short-term rental. This restriction prevents renters from subleasing the property without the owner's explicit permission, as per local ordinances.

Destin, FL Short-Term Rental Laws &...

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Regulation Details

Eligibility(8)

•Destin allows STRs in the following property types: Single-family, Condo, Townhouse, Duplex.
•Destin does NOT allow tenants to host STRs. Only property owners may operate short-term rentals.
•Destin does NOT require the property to be a primary residence. Investment properties are allowed.
•Destin: Vehicles must be parked on an improved surface; street parking for STR guests is prohibited.

Requirements(19)

•Destin: You must display your permit/registration number on your listing. Platforms may remove non-compliant listings.
•Destin STR warning: Vehicles must be parked on an improved surface; street parking for STR guests is prohibited.
•Destin has different permit classes: Standard Residential STR. Hosted vs. unhosted rentals have different requirements.

Application Process(11)

•Destin STR permit - Step 3: City Registration. Complete the Destin STR registration via the Host Compliance portal. Required documents: Floor plan, Site plan, State licenses. Time: 2 weeks. Cost: 500.
•Destin, FL extended permit requirement: A $100 late fee applies if not renewed by October 1st.

Fees & Costs(2)

•Destin: Registration must be renewed every year by September 30th to avoid a late fee.
•Destin charges a registration fee of $500 (annual). Extended/additional fee: $100 (A $100 late fee applies if not renewed by October 1st.).

Taxes(2)

•Destin charges a Tourist Development Tax of 5%. This applies to stays under 180 days. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax. Note: Airbnb and VRBO remit the 5% County TDT; however, hosts must still file $0 returns if platforms collect.
•Florida has a state sales tax of 7% that applies to STR rentals.

Limits & Restrictions(7)

•Destin limits STRs to a maximum of 24 guests. Formula: 2 persons per bedroom plus an additional 4 persons, total not to exceed 24.
•Destin: The maximum occupancy is strictly capped at 24 persons regardless of house size.
•Destin occupancy calculation: 2 persons per bedroom plus an additional 4 persons, total not to exceed 24.. Count your bedrooms to determine your max guest limit.

Safety Requirements(1)

•Destin requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, fire inspection, posted maximum occupancy, posted emergency contact, Exit signs for occupancy over 10, Posted emergency evacuation plan, Standard safety inspection by Fire Marshal.

Penalties(4)

•Destin: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.
•Destin, FL: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions(3)

•Destin exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals (30+ days).
•Destin, FL: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
•Destin: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).

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Regulation Details

Eligibility(8)

Requirements(19)

Application Process(11)

Fees & Costs(2)

Taxes(2)

Limits & Restrictions(7)

Safety Requirements(1)

Penalties(4)

Exemptions(3)

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