Short-Term Rental Rules in Fort Lauderdale, FL (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term rentals are allowed in Fort Lauderdale, FL, with registration and compliance requirements in place. Hosts must obtain a certificate of compliance and may be subject to taxes under Florida law.
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, short-term rental hosts in Fort Lauderdale need to register their property as a vacation rental and obtain a certificate of compliance from the city [1]. It is unlawful to rent or operate a vacation rental without this certification [1].
Taxes
Short-term rentals are subject to a transient rentals tax, which is 6% of the total rental charge [2]. This tax is in addition to the rental amount and must be collected and remitted by the owner or lessor [2].
Limits and restrictions
A vacation rental is defined as any unit rented to transient occupants more than three times a year for periods less than 30 days [1]. Rentals must comply with all applicable city regulations to avoid violations [1].
Penalties
Operating a vacation rental without the required registration or certificate of compliance is unlawful [1]. Penalties are enforced for non-compliance, but specific amounts or types of penalties are not detailed in the provided sources; hosts should ask the city for this information.
How to apply
To apply for vacation rental registration, owners must submit an application with applicable fees to the city [1]. The registration is considered pending once filed, provided all fees are paid, and it will be rejected if incomplete [1].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit requirement | Registration and certificate of compliance are required [1]. |
| Tax rate | Transient rental tax is 6% [2]. |
| Definition of rental | Rent more than three times a year for less than 30 days [1]. |
| Non-compliance | Unlawful without registration; ask the city about penalties [1]. |
FAQ
Is a property inspection required for certification?
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
What happens if I don’t register my property?
Operating a vacation rental without registration is unlawful [1].
Where should the certificate of compliance be displayed?
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
Running a rental in Fort Lauderdale
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 X. - VACATION RENTAL | Code of Ordinances | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Municode Library (official)
- Chapter 212 Section 03 - 2025 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate (official)
- City of Fort Lauderdale - File #: 25-0756 (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.