Cross-referenced against 3 official sources — municipal codes, planning-department pages, and government registries.
Short-term rentals in Rosemary Beach are regulated by Walton County and the State of Florida, requiring a mandatory Certificate of Compliance and a state lodging license.
To rent your home short-term, you must first obtain a license from the Florida DBPR and register with the state and county for tax purposes. Locally, you must apply for a Walton County Vacation Rental Certificate of Compliance, which involves strictly following occupancy, parking, and fire safety rules, including installing specific signage and emergency lighting.
Step-by-step guide for Rosemary Beach
Apply for a 'Vacation Rental - Dwelling' or 'Vacation Rental - Condominium' license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Register to collect and remit state sales tax (6%) and the local discretionary surtax (1%).
Create an account with the Walton County Clerk of Court to collect and remit the 5% Tourist Development Tax.
Submit a local application for the Certificate of Compliance, including safety affidavits and floor plans.
Regulatory information is AI-researched from public city/county codes for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Researched & verified by Learn STR at GoStudioM