Dania Beach Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Dania Beach, Florida?

Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular in Dania Beach. However, the city has enacted regulations on these rentals to balance the needs of residents and visitors. Here's what you need to know about short-term rental rules in Dania Beach.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Dania Beach

In 2011, Dania Beach passed an ordinance regulating "vacation rentals" in response to a new state law. The measure establishes:

• A minimum five-day rental period
• Requirement for owners to obtain a business tax receipt
• Compliance with city zoning codes
• Application for and renewal of a vacation rental certificate annually
• Provision of rental agent name and contact info to the city

The ordinance does not apply to vacation rentals in multi-family complexes of more than four units, as those already require city licensing for residential rentals.

City officials said the state's decision to limit local control of short-term rentals forced them to act before a June 1st deadline set by the legislature. The city had identified eight or nine properties operating as unlicensed short-term rentals.

The chief code inspector said the ordinance eliminates a regulatory gray area and defends residential neighborhoods from issues like high turnover, trash, crime and traffic associated with unlicensed rentals operating under the radar.

To legally rent your Dania Beach property short-term, you need to:

1. Obtain a business tax receipt from the city
2. Ensure your property meets zoning requirements
3. Apply for a vacation rental certificate
4. Provide 24/7 contact info for a rental agent to handle any issues
5. Renew your rental certificate annually

Failing to comply can result in fines and legal action by the city. Dania Beach requires all short-term rentals to register with the city.

So, in summary, while short-term rentals are allowed in Dania Beach, the city has put regulations in place to maintain neighborhood character and address potential nuisances. Hosts must follow the permitting and operational rules to legally run an STR business. Working closely with city staff can help navigate the process and ensure compliance.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Dania Beach

To legally launch and operate a short-term rental in Dania Beach, property owners must obtain a Vacation Rental Certificate from the city. This requirement was established in 2011 when the city passed an ordinance regulating vacation rentals in response to a new state law.

The licensing process for short-term rentals in Dania Beach involves several steps:

1. Obtain a Business Tax Receipt: All short-term rental operators must first obtain a Business Tax Receipt from the city. This ensures the rental is registered as a business entity.
2. Meet Zoning Requirements: The property must be located in a zone that allows short-term rentals. Owners should contact the Planning & Zoning Division to confirm their property's zoning compliance.
3. Apply for Vacation Rental Certificate: Owners must submit a Vacation Rental Application Packet to the city. This includes proof of ownership, a local contact person, a parking plan, and other details about the rental operations.
4. Pass Inspections: The property must pass any required city inspections to ensure it meets safety and habitability standards for short-term renting.
5. Provide Contact Information: Owners must provide the city with the name and 24/7 contact information of a designated rental agent who can address any issues that arise.
6. Renew Annually: The Vacation Rental Certificate must be renewed each year as long as the property operates as a short-term rental.

It's important to note that the short-term rental ordinance does not apply to vacation rentals in multi-family complexes with more than four units, as those properties already require city licensing for residential rentals.

Failing to obtain the proper licensing for a short-term rental can result in fines and legal action by the city. Dania Beach code enforcement actively investigates complaints of unlicensed rentals and monitors listings for compliance.

By requiring Vacation Rental Certificates, the city aims to eliminate a regulatory gray area and protect the residential character of neighborhoods from potential nuisances associated with unlicensed short-term rentals. The licensing process ensures a standard of safety and accountability for rental operators.

Required Documents for Dania Beach Short-Term Rentals

To apply for a Vacation Rental Certificate and legally operate a short-term rental in Dania Beach, property owners must submit several required documents as part of the application process. Having these documents prepared in advance can help streamline the licensing process.

The key required document for a Dania Beach short-term rental is the Vacation Rental Application Packet. This comprehensive packet includes:

1. Vacation Rental Application Form
   - Collects information about the property owner, rental agent, and property details
   - Must be signed by the owner or authorized representative
2. Proof of Ownership
   - Copy of the recorded warranty deed or tax bill showing the current owner
3. Floor Plan
   - Sketch or blueprint showing the layout of the rental unit, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and exits
4. Parking Plan
   - Diagram indicating the number and location of off-street parking spaces available for guests
5. Rental Agent Contact Information
   - Name, address, and 24/7 phone number for the designated rental agent who will handle any issues that arise
6. Business Tax Receipt
   - Copy of the current Business Tax Receipt obtained from the city for the rental property
7. Certificate of Occupancy or Completion
   - Documentation showing the property is approved for residential occupancy
8. Application Fee
   - Non-refundable fee payable to the City of Dania Beach (amount varies based on property type)

In addition to the Vacation Rental Application Packet, short-term rental operators may need to provide other supporting documentation as requested by the city. This could include proof of insurance, tax ID numbers, or records related to past rental activity.

Submitting a complete application with all required documents is essential to obtaining a Vacation Rental Certificate in Dania Beach. Incomplete applications will be rejected, causing delays in the licensing process.

Once issued, the Vacation Rental Certificate must be renewed annually for as long as the property operates as a short-term rental. Owners will need to submit updated documents and renewal fees to maintain their license in good standing.

By carefully reviewing and organizing the required documents, short-term rental hosts in Dania Beach can navigate the city's licensing process efficiently. The Vacation Rental Application Packet provides a helpful checklist to ensure all necessary paperwork is accounted for. Consulting with the city's Planning & Zoning Division is the best way to verify the most current application requirements.

Dania Beach Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rentals in Dania Beach are subject to several taxes that hosts must collect from guests and remit to the proper authorities.

1. State Sales Tax: The state of Florida charges a 6% sales tax on all short-term rental stays of 6 months or less. This tax applies to the total rental amount, including any cleaning fees or other charges.
2. Broward County Tourist Development Tax: Dania Beach is located in Broward County, which imposes a 6% Tourist Development Tax on short-term rentals. This tax helps fund tourism marketing and beach renourishment efforts.
3. Total Tax Rate: With the 6% state sales tax and 6% county tourist tax, the total tax rate on short-term rentals in Dania Beach is 12%. For example, on a $1,000 rental, hosts would collect $120 in taxes from the guest.

Hosts are responsible for registering with the Florida Department of Revenue and Broward County to obtain tax accounts and file returns. Detailed records of all rental income and taxes collected must be maintained.

Failure to properly collect and remit taxes can result in penalties, fines, and potential legal action. Working with a tax professional familiar with Florida's rental tax laws is advisable for full compliance.

Florida Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While short-term rental regulations are largely determined at the local level in Florida, there are some statewide rules that all hosts must follow:

1. Licensing: Florida state law requires a license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for any rental of a housing unit more than three times per year for periods of less than 30 days. Licensing requirements vary based on the property type.
2. Safety Standards: The DBPR outlines minimum safety standards that all vacation rentals must meet, including requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, pool safety, and more.
3. Tax Collection: As mentioned, hosts must collect and remit the 6% state sales tax, as well as any county tourist taxes, on their rental income.
4. Homestead Exemption: Owners receiving a Homestead Exemption on their property may jeopardize that exemption if the home is rented out frequently as a short-term rental. Specific rules vary by county.
5. Advertising: All advertisements for short-term rentals must include the DBPR license number, sales tax registration number, and any other locally required license or permit numbers.
6. Zoning: Short-term rentals must comply with all local zoning ordinances and restrictions on where vacation rentals are permitted.
7. Discrimination: Florida law prohibits hosts from discriminating against guests based on race, creed, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or marital status.

While the state provides a regulatory framework, the specific operational requirements for short-term rentals are largely dictated by individual counties and cities in Florida. Hosts must carefully research and comply with their local municipality's rules in addition to the statewide regulations outlined above.

Does Dania Beach Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions from real estate investing forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, Dania Beach appears to be actively enforcing its short-term rental regulations compared to some other cities in South Florida. Many hosts express frustration with the city's requirements and penalties for non-compliance.

One Reddit user complained that the owner of their apartment building was illegally operating Airbnb rentals, despite Dania Beach prohibiting short-term rentals in multi-family buildings. They were encouraged by others to file a formal code violation complaint, as the city takes these issues seriously.

Another Redditor mentioned they had previously worked as a furniture delivery person and witnessed many Airbnb owners operating illegally in Dania Beach, either in prohibited zones or while claiming a homestead exemption. There seems to be a sentiment that the city should "throw them under the bus" for violating ordinances and contributing to the housing crunch.

On the Bigger Pockets forums, hosts have warned about Dania Beach's strict 5-day minimum rental period and vacation rental licensing requirements. Some suggest the regulations make it very challenging to operate short-term rentals profitably in the city.

Compared to cities like Fort Lauderdale, that have more lax enforcement, Dania Beach is not considered an Airbnb-friendly location. The city's code inspectors actively monitor listings and have identified multiple unlicensed vacation rentals in the past. With a focus on protecting residential areas, Dania Beach does not seem to turn a blind eye to illegal short-term rental activity.

So, in summary, while some hosts likely still try to operate under the radar, Dania Beach is taking a firm stance on enforcing its short-term rental rules. The city prioritizes residential quality of life over facilitating vacation rentals. Prospective Airbnb investors and hosts should carefully weigh the risks of non-compliance in Dania Beach.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Dania Beach

1. Research Dania Beach's zoning regulations to ensure your property is located in an area that permits vacation rentals. Many residential zones prohibit short-term rentals.
2. Obtain a Business Tax Receipt from the city, which registers your short-term rental as a business entity.
3. Apply for a Vacation Rental Certificate from the City of Dania Beach. This involves submitting an application packet with details on the property, rental agent contact information, parking plan, and other required documents.
4. Schedule any necessary home inspections with the city to ensure your property meets all safety and habitability standards for vacation rentals.
5. Once approved, prominently display the Vacation Rental Certificate inside the rental unit as required.
6. Provide the city with 24/7 contact information for a designated local property manager who can respond to any issues that arise.
7. Renew the Vacation Rental Certificate annually as long as you plan to operate a short-term rental.
8. Ensure compliance with the minimum 5-day rental period. Advertising or renting for shorter stays is prohibited.
9. Collect and remit the required taxes, including 6% Florida state sales tax and 6% Broward County tourist tax.
10. Follow all other applicable rules in Dania Beach's vacation rental ordinance, such as occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise restrictions.
11. Maintain your rental property to the city's standards and be prepared for potential inspections by code enforcement officers.
12. Respond promptly to any complaints from neighbors or the city regarding your short-term rental operations.

By carefully adhering to Dania Beach's short-term rental regulations from the outset, you can start a legal short-term rental business while minimizing the risks of fines or other penalties. However, the city's strict enforcement posture means violations are unlikely to go unnoticed for long.

Who to Contact in Dania Beach about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For questions about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Dania Beach, contact the city's Planning & Zoning Division or Code Compliance Division.

Planning & Zoning Division:
Phone: 954-924-6805 x3643
Email: planning-zoning@daniabeachfl.gov

The Planning & Zoning Division can provide information on zoning districts where short-term rentals are allowed and any specific land use regulations that apply. They handle the permitting process for vacation rentals.

Code Compliance Division:
Phone: 954-924-6810
Email: codecompliance@daniabeachfl.gov

The Code Compliance Division enforces Dania Beach's vacation rental ordinance. They can answer questions about licensing requirements, operational rules, and penalties for violations. This division investigates complaints about illegal or problematic short-term rentals.

When contacting these departments, have your property address and details ready. The staff can look up the zoning designation and explain the rules that apply to your specific rental situation.

For general inquiries, you can also call the City of Dania Beach at 954-924-6800 or use the online contact form at www.daniabeachfl.gov/contact. The city's customer service team can direct your short-term rental questions to the appropriate staff.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Dania Beach on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Discussions on real estate investing forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets provide insight into how Airbnb hosts view Dania Beach's short-term rental regulations:

On the r/Airbnb_Hosts subreddit, one Dania Beach host complained about the city's strict 5-day minimum rental period rule, saying it makes operating an Airbnb very difficult and limits profitability. However, others replied that the regulation helps prevent disruptive short stays.

Another Reddit thread discussed a Dania Beach resident whose neighbor was illegally operating an Airbnb out of their apartment. Despite multiple complaints to the city, the poster felt the vacation rental rules were not being adequately enforced.

On Bigger Pockets, a prospective host asked about Dania Beach's regulations before investing in a short-term rental property. Responses warned that the licensing process is complicated, with requirements like providing 24/7 local contact information. Some felt the city's stance is too restrictive on Airbnbs.

However, one Bigger Pockets user mentioned they operate a compliant vacation rental in Dania Beach successfully. They advised thoroughly understanding the rules, obtaining proper permits and licenses, and being a responsible operator to avoid issues with the city.

Overall, the sentiment among hosts is that Dania Beach's short-term rental regulations create additional hurdles compared to more permissive locations. While some feel the city could be more accommodating, others appreciate the effort to mitigate potential nuisances. Most agree that operating within the city's rules is essential, even if challenging at times.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.