Jacksonville Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Jacksonville, North Carolina?

Short-term rentals in Jacksonville, North Carolina are subject to local zoning regulations and business license requirements. Hosts are also required to comply with general business licensing and tax requirements that apply to all commercial activities in the city. As of now, Jacksonville does not have specific regulations governing short-term rentals like Airbnb or VRBO, allowing hosts to operate without needing special permits or registrations.

The city of Jacksonville may be considering regulations for short-term vacation rentals, such as Airbnb, to protect neighbors and guests. Proposed regulations could include requirements for hosts to register with the city, pay fees, pass fire-prevention inspections, undergo city landlord-training programs, and limit the maximum number of guests per bedroom. Additionally, hosts may need to provide off-street parking spots for each bedroom rented out.

In North Carolina, the primary mechanism for regulating short-term rentals at the state level is the North Carolina Vacation Rental Act. This Act applies to any person or entity offering, renting, or managing a "vacation rental" in the state, with specific requirements for written agreements, handling of rents and security deposits, property maintenance, and tenant obligations. Many city and county governments in North Carolina have enacted their own regulations, including provisions like occupancy limits, parking specifications, noise restrictions, and zoning restrictions on short-term rentals.

While Jacksonville does not have specific short-term rental regulations in place currently, it is essential for hosts to stay informed about any potential changes in local ordinances or zoning codes that may impact their short-term rental operations. It is advisable to consult with the Jacksonville Planning and Development Department or the Duval County Tax Collector's Office for the most up-to-date information on short-term rental regulations in the city.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Jacksonville

To start a short-term rental business in Jacksonville, Florida, hosts must follow specific guidelines and obtain necessary licenses and permits. Here are the steps to get started based on the information provided in the sources:

• Determine Zoning Compliance: Short-term vacation rentals are permitted in zoning districts where residential uses are allowed. Ensure your property meets the zoning requirements for short-term rentals in Jacksonville.
• Apply for a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate: If you are a property owner or a licensed agent for a property management company, you must apply for a short-term vacation rental certificate for each property being used as a short-term vacation rental. The application process typically involves submitting an application to the City of Jacksonville Beach at the planning and development department.
• Registration with Tax Authorities: Hosts need to register with county and state taxing authorities, even if the property is an owner-occupied dwelling with a unit renting 50% or less. This registration is essential to comply with tax requirements for short-term rentals in Jacksonville.
• Obtain a Business License: Single-family, two-family (duplexes), and townhouse units being used as transient public lodging establishments are required to obtain a Short-Term Vacation Rental license. The fee for initial and annual registration for each property is $150, and the annual fee for a Local Business Tax Receipt is $79.20 for each property.
• Understand Tax Obligations: In Jacksonville and the State of Florida, hosts are subject to tourist taxes on any rental of a living or sleeping accommodation for periods of 6 months or less. The total tax rate for transient rentals is 13.5%, with specific portions remitted to Duval County and the State of Florida, Department of Revenue.
• Comply with Statewide Regulations: Florida state law requires hosts to register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) if they charge guests for accommodations for rental periods of six months or less. Hosts are responsible for collecting lodging taxes from guests and filing lodging tax returns with state authorities.
• Contact the City of Jacksonville Planning Department: For further information on short-term rental regulations and zoning in Jacksonville, you can contact the City of Jacksonville Planning Department. They can provide guidance on the permit application process and any additional requirements for starting a short-term rental business in the city.

By following these steps and ensuring compliance with local regulations and tax requirements, hosts can successfully start a short-term rental business in Jacksonville, Florida.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Jacksonville

• All short-term rental hosts in Jacksonville are required to obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the City of Jacksonville Tax Collector's Office. This serves as the business license for operating a short-term rental.
• In addition to the business license, hosts must also apply for and receive a short-term rental permit from the Jacksonville Planning and Development Department. This permit must be renewed annually and comes with its own set of requirements.
• To obtain the short-term rental permit, hosts must submit various documents including a completed application, proof of property ownership/lease, floor plan, liability insurance, and a notarized affidavit of compliance with regulations.
• The city reviews these materials to ensure the rental property meets safety and zoning requirements before issuing the short-term rental permit.
• Failure to comply with the licensing and permitting requirements can result in fines of up to $500 per day and potential revocation of the short-term rental permit.

In summary, operating a short-term rental in Jacksonville requires both a general business license as well as a specific short-term rental permit from the city. Hosts must go through an application process and meet certain criteria to legally offer their properties for short-term rentals in Jacksonville.

Required Documents for Jacksonville Short Term Rentals

To obtain a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate in Jacksonville, hosts must submit a comprehensive application packet to the City's Planning and Development Department. This packet includes:

• Affidavit of Compliance: A notarized document signed by the property owner or licensed agent agreeing to maintain compliance with the city's Short-term Vacation Rental Standards. It covers safety, parking, waste management, emergency contacts, and other regulations.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee payable to the "City of Jacksonville Beach" to cover the cost of processing the application.
• Local Business Tax Form: A form specific to short-term vacation rentals that must be completed for each property.
• Duval County Business Tax Receipt: Proof of a valid business tax receipt from Duval County for each rental property.
• Duval County Tourist Tax Certificate: Documentation showing registration for the collection of tourist taxes on short-term rentals.
• Florida Department of Revenue Certificate: A certificate of registration (DR-1C for collectives) from the Florida Department of Revenue.
• DBPR License: A valid license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for transient public lodging establishments.
• Lease Agreement and Required Postings: A blank short-term rental lease agreement (if available) and copies of required postings for guests.
• Parking Documentation: A boundary survey or photo showing the location of the required off-street parking spaces.
• Owner/Agent Identification: A valid photo ID of the property owner or licensed agent submitting the application.
• Business Entity Documents: Articles of Incorporation (AOI) or Articles of Organization (AOO) if the property is owned by a business entity.

Other Required Documents

In addition to the application packet, hosts must provide:

• Proof of Property Ownership or Lease: Documentation demonstrating ownership or a valid lease agreement for the rental property.
• Floor Plan: A detailed floor plan of the rental unit to ensure compliance with safety and zoning requirements.
• Liability Insurance: Proof of liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of $300,000 to protect guests and the property.
• Notarized Affidavit of Compliance: A signed and notarized affidavit attesting to compliance with all short-term rental regulations and standards.

By submitting these required documents and meeting the city's criteria, hosts can obtain a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate and legally operate their short-term rental property in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jacksonville Short Term Rental Taxes

Florida State Taxes

• Florida Transient Rental Tax: Short-term rental hosts in Florida are required to collect and remit a 6% Transient Rental Tax on the total rental amount charged for accommodations rented for six months or less. This tax is collected by hosts and submitted to the Florida Department of Revenue on a monthly basis.
• Florida Discretionary Sales Surtax: In addition to the state sales tax, hosts may be subject to a discretionary sales surtax ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% based on the county where the rental property is located. This surtax is added to the state sales tax and must also be collected and remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue.

Duval County Taxes

• Duval County Tourist Development Tax: Hosts in Duval County are required to collect a 6% Tourist Development Tax on short-term rentals. This tax is levied on the total rental amount and is used to fund tourism-related activities and initiatives in the county. Hosts must register with the county to collect and remit this tax accordingly.
• Local Business Tax Receipt: Hosts must obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt from Duval County for each short-term rental property they operate. This annual tax receipt is required for conducting business within the county and ensures compliance with local tax regulations.

City of Jacksonville Taxes

• Transient Lodging Tax: The City of Jacksonville may impose a Transient Lodging Tax on short-term rentals within its jurisdiction. This tax is typically collected by hosts and remitted to the city to support local tourism and hospitality initiatives. Hosts should inquire with the city's tax authorities for specific details on this tax requirement.

To effectively manage the tax obligations associated with short-term rentals in Jacksonville, hosts should:

• Maintain Accurate Records: Keep detailed records of rental income, expenses, and taxes collected to facilitate accurate reporting and compliance.
• Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates to tax laws and regulations at the state, county, and city levels to ensure adherence to current requirements.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with a tax professional or accountant familiar with short-term rental taxation to receive tailored advice and guidance on tax matters.

By understanding and fulfilling their tax responsibilities, short-term rental hosts in Jacksonville can operate their businesses smoothly and in compliance with applicable tax laws and regulations.

Jacksonville wide Short Term Rental Rules

The short-term rental rules in Jacksonville, Florida are designed to regulate and manage the operation of short-term vacation rentals within the city. Here are the key regulations that hosts must adhere to:

• Maximum Occupancy: The city of Jacksonville enforces a maximum occupancy rule of two adults per bedroom, with an additional allowance of two extra adults. This regulation aims to control the number of guests staying in short-term rental properties to ensure safety and compliance with zoning laws.
• Minimum Stay Requirement: Short-term rentals in Jacksonville must adhere to a minimum stay requirement of one night. This rule sets a standard for the duration of guest stays in these rental properties.
• Prohibition on Events or Parties: Hosts are prohibited from hosting events or parties in short-term rental properties. This regulation is in place to maintain the peace and quiet of residential neighborhoods and prevent disturbances to neighbors.
• Local Contact Person: Hosts are required to provide guests with the contact information of a local representative who is available 24/7. This ensures that guests have access to assistance and support during their stay in case of emergencies or issues.
• Posting of Permit Number and Contact Information: Hosts must prominently display the short-term rental permit number and local contact information within the rental property. This requirement helps ensure transparency and compliance with city regulations.

These rules are crucial for maintaining the quality of life in residential areas, preventing nuisances, and promoting responsible hosting practices in the short-term rental market in Jacksonville, Florida.

Is Jacksonville Airbnb Friendly?

Jacksonville, Florida appears to be Airbnb-friendly. The city allows short-term rentals, defined as rentals of fewer than 30 nights, in specific zones like the Commercial Zone and Historic Core Zone. Hosts are required to obtain a land use permit from the City of Jacksonville Planning and Development Department for short-term rentals, and long-term rentals over 30 nights are allowed in residential zones without a permit.

Additionally, the partnership between Airbnb and certain apartment buildings in the U.S., including those in Jacksonville, allows renters to host part-time through Airbnb. This initiative aims to make it easier for individuals to rent out their places and earn extra income, demonstrating a level of accommodation and support for short-term rental hosts in the city.

Moreover, the proposed regulations in Jacksonville to regulate short-term vacation rentals like Airbnb, as mentioned in the news article, indicate the city's efforts to balance the interests of hosts, neighbors, and guests. While the regulations aim to protect the community and ensure safety, some concerns have been raised about potential red tape for hosts. However, the willingness of hosts like Gina Martinelli to comply with regulations and contribute to the city's revenue reflects a positive attitude towards regulation and cooperation.

In conclusion, Jacksonville's allowance of short-term rentals, participation in Airbnb-friendly initiatives, and ongoing discussions about regulations suggest that the city is generally Airbnb-friendly, providing opportunities for hosts to engage in short-term rental activities within the established guidelines and regulations.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Jacksonville

To start a short-term rental business in Jacksonville, Florida, follow these steps based on the information provided in the sources:

• Check Zoning Regulations: Determine if your property is zoned for short-term rentals. The city's zoning code specifies which residential areas allow short-term rentals.
• Obtain Business Tax Receipt (BTR): Acquire a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the City of Jacksonville Tax Collector's Office. This receipt serves as your business license for operating a short-term rental business.
• Apply for Short-Term Rental Permit: Submit an application for a short-term rental permit to the Jacksonville Planning and Development Department. Ensure to provide the required documents and pay the permit fee.
• Register for Taxes: Collect and remit all required taxes, including state sales tax, county tourist tax, and any other applicable taxes, by registering with the Florida Department of Revenue.
• Comply with Regulations: Adhere to all short-term rental regulations, such as occupancy limits, local contact requirements, and posting the permit number within the property.
• Contact Jacksonville Planning and Development Department: For further guidance on short-term rental regulations and zoning in Jacksonville, reach out to the Jacksonville Planning and Development Department at (904) 255-7800 or via email at planninginfo@coj.net.
• Contact City of Jacksonville Tax Collector's Office: For inquiries regarding tax requirements and business licensing, contact the City of Jacksonville Tax Collector's Office at (904) 630-2064 or via email at taxcollector@coj.net.

By following these steps and ensuring compliance with the city's regulations, you can successfully start a short-term rental business in Jacksonville, Florida.

Who to contact in Jacksonville about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

Starting a short-term rental business in Jacksonville, Florida requires navigating a few key contacts and departments within the city. The first stop should be the Jacksonville Planning and Development Department, located at 214 N. Hogan St. This office oversees zoning, land use, and development, making them the experts on what properties can be used for short-term rentals and what permits are needed.

Once you've confirmed your property is zoned appropriately, the next step is to reach out to the City of Jacksonville Tax Collector's Office at 231 E. Forsyth St. They handle business licensing and tax requirements. You'll need to obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from this office to legally operate your short-term rental. They can also provide guidance on registering for state sales tax and remitting the required tourist development taxes.

If you have any questions about the property itself, such as ownership records or tax assessments, the Duval County Property Appraiser's Office at the same address as the Tax Collector's Office can assist. They maintain records on all properties within the county.

For state-level tax questions, the Florida Department of Revenue is the resource. They are located at 2450 Shumard Oak Blvd. in Tallahassee. Their team can help with registration and compliance with Florida's transient rental tax laws.

Throughout the process, the Planning and Development Department and Tax Collector's Office should be your primary points of contact in Jacksonville. The Planning team can be reached at (904) 255-7800 or planninginfo@coj.net, while the Tax Collector's Office can be contacted at (904) 630-2064 or taxcollector@coj.net. With their help, you'll be well on your way to starting a successful short-term rental business in the city.

What do Airbnb hosts in Jacksonville on Reddit and Bigger Pockets think about local regulations?

Some hosts appreciate the relatively hands-off approach Jacksonville takes compared to other cities. One host commented that "there are no special hoops to jump through when starting up" an Airbnb in Jacksonville, suggesting the regulations are not overly burdensome.

However, others are concerned about the potential for increased regulation. When the city council started discussing new rules in 2018, some hosts worried it would create "too much red tape". One host argued that any ban on short-term rentals would "do more harm than good" by limiting economic opportunities.

Hosts also seem uncertain about some of the existing requirements. Many were unaware they needed to pay additional tourist taxes beyond what Airbnb collects. There were calls for the city to provide clearer guidance on "the things you need to do" to legally operate an Airbnb.

Overall, while some Jacksonville Airbnb hosts appreciate the current regulatory environment, there are concerns about the possibility of more restrictive rules in the future. Clearer communication from the city about short-term rental laws could help hosts better understand and comply with the regulations.

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.