Fort Lauderdale Short-Term Rental Regulations
Last verified: 2026-04-06
TL;DR
Fort Lauderdale requires Vacation Rental Certificate of Compliance ($350).
Combined tax rate is 12%.
No annual day limit. Key Requirements at a Glance
| Permit | ✓ Required — Vacation Rental Certificate of Compliance ($350) |
| Primary Residence | Not required |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit |
| Tax Rate | 12% |
| Max Penalty | Not publicly specified |
| Insurance | Not required |
New to short-term rentals? Jump to the compliance checklist →
Permit & Licensing
Vacation Rental Certificate of Compliance
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial cost | $350 |
| Renewal | $160 / 1 year |
This permit type does not require primary residence.
Application Process
In-person application with inspection required; processing time 10-12 business days during peak season (August-September)
Tax Obligations
| Tax | Rate | Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Development Tax | 6% | Broward County |
| Florida State Sales Tax | 6% | Florida Department of Revenue |
Combined rate: 12% of gross rental income.
Collection: Host self-remits to Broward County
Filing: Monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually (assigned by county)
Rental Limits
Fort Lauderdale does not impose an annual cap on the number of nights you can rent.
Zoning & Restrictions
Check with local government
Insurance & Safety
Safety & Operating Requirements
- Annual safety inspection required
- Each vacation rental must be equipped with a noise level detection device (as of September 19, 2023)
- Must pass Certificate of Compliance inspection
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Not publicly specified
Compliance Checklist
Follow these steps to legally operate a short-term rental in Fort Lauderdale:
- Meet safety requirements. Annual safety inspection required. Each vacation rental must be equipped with a noise level detection device (as of September 19, 2023). Must pass Certificate of Compliance inspection.
- Apply for Vacation Rental Certificate of Compliance. Submit application + $350 fee.
- Register for tax accounts. Set up lodging tax accounts with Broward County Tourist Development Tax Section.
- Collect and remit taxes. 12% on all bookings.
- Renew annually. $160 renewal fee.