Short-Term Rental Rules in Destin, FL (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Destin, FL, but hosts must abide by specific registration and operational rules. A host needs to register annually and follow city ordinances regarding occupancy, signage, and responsible party requirements.
Do you need a permit or license?
Registration is mandatory for anyone offering short-term rental of a single-family dwelling unit in Destin [1]. Registration is required annually [2].
Taxes
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
Limits and restrictions
Short-term rental occupancy is defined as stays from one day to no more than six months [1]. A responsible party must be able to address issues within one hour [1]. Maximum overnight occupancy is 2 adults per bedroom plus 4 additional people per property [2]. Maximum allowed overnight occupancy is 24 persons [2]. Parking must adhere to city codes, and signage displaying management and occupancy details is mandatory [2].
Penalties
Properties registered after March 31 incur a $100 fee, and after June 1, a $500 fee [2].
How to apply
Applications can be submitted online on the City of Destin's short-term rental portal [4]. Required documents include ownership proof, business tax receipt, state licenses, and a fee [1]. Registration starts on January 1 and incurs late fees if delayed beyond specified deadlines [2].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Registration Required | Yes, annually [1][2] |
| Registration Start Date | January 1 [2] |
| Registration Fees | $500 to $700 based on property size [2] |
| Late Registration Fees | $100 after March 31, $500 after June 1 [2] |
| Occupancy Limits | 2 adults per bedroom +4, maximum 24 people overall [2] |
| Responsible Party | Must address issues within one hour and be available 24/7 [1] |
| Parking Standards | Must comply with city code [2] |
| Signage Requirements | Display within 7 days of registration; size 18x18 inches [2] |
| Zoning | Allowed in specified zoning areas per city's zoning map [2] |
FAQ
What is the registration fee for a short-term rental?
Registration fees vary: $500 for properties less than 2,499 sq. ft., $600 for 2,500-4,999 sq. ft., and $700 for 5,000 sq. ft. and above [2].
Do I need to register my short-term rental every year?
Yes, all short-term rental properties need to be registered annually [2].
What happens if I register my property late?
A late fee of $100 is assessed if registered after March 31, and $500 if registered after June 1 [2].
Running a rental in Destin
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- ARTICLE VI. - REGISTRATION OF SHORT-TERM RENTALS (official)
- FAQs - CivicPlus.CMS.FAQ (official)
- Short-Term Rental Registration Guide (official)
- Register a Short Term Rental | Destin, FL - Official Website (official)
Last checked: October 13, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.