Short-Term Rental Rules in Miami Beach, FL (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Vacation and short-term rentals in Miami Beach, defined as rentals for less than six months and one day, are subject to significant restrictions. Most single-family homes and many multi-family buildings in specific zoning districts are not permitted for this use [1]. Hosts can operate legally only in certain zoning areas and must obtain a Business Tax Receipt and a Resort Tax account [1].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, hosts are required to have a Vacation/Short-Term Rental Business Tax Receipt if their property is situated in an eligible zoning district [1]. Properties must also have a Certificate of Use from the City of Miami Beach to legally operate as a short-term rental [4]. Both the Business Tax Receipt number and the Resort Tax certificate number must be displayed in all ads or listings for the rental [1].
Taxes
Hosts must register for and collect a Tourist Tax if the rental period is six months or less [3]. The appropriate taxes must be remitted monthly [3].
Limits and restrictions
Short-term rentals are prohibited in single-family dwellings and many multi-family dwellings outside designated zones [1]. The maximum occupancy for vacation rentals is two persons per bedroom, plus two additional individuals per property, not exceeding 12 people, excluding children under three years of age [3].
Penalties
Operating without the required Certificate of Use results in fines: $100 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second offense within 24 months, and $2,500 for subsequent offenses [3]. Unpaid fines can lead to property liens [3].
How to apply
To apply for a Certificate of Use, create a Civic Access account and ensure you have the necessary documents, including the Business Tax Receipt and any other required approvals [4]. Submit all required information and documents via the Civic Access portal [4].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit or License | Required for eligible zones [1] |
| Taxes | Tourist Tax required if rented for <= 6 months [3] |
| Maximum Occupancy | 2 per bedroom, max 12 people [3] |
| Penalties | $100 to $2,500, property liens possible [3] |
| Application | Civic Access account needed [4] |
FAQ
What are key zoning restrictions in Miami Beach?
Short-term rentals are prohibited in single-family homes and non-approved multi-family buildings [1].
Do I need to display my Business Tax Receipt number in ads?
Yes, both the Business Tax Receipt number and Resort Tax certificate number must be displayed in all listings [1].
What is the maximum occupancy for a short-term rental?
The maximum is two persons per bedroom, plus two additional persons, up to 12, excluding children under three [3].
Running a rental in Miami Beach
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Vacation Short Term Rentals - City of Miami Beach (official)
- How to Convert to a Short-Term Rental/Lodging - Miami (official)
- Short-Term Vacation Rentals (official)
- Get a Certificate of Use CU - City of Miami Beach (official)
Last checked: October 12, 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.