Miami Lakes Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Miami Lakes

Miami Lakes, a town in Miami-Dade County, Florida, has specific regulations governing short-term rentals. According to the Miami Lakes Code of Ordinances, short-term rentals are considered a "special event" and require obtaining a permit.

To launch and operate a short-term rental legally, property owners must apply for a Special Event Permit from the Town of Miami Lakes. The application process involves submitting details about the property, the number of bedrooms, and the maximum occupancy intended.

Additionally, the town imposes certain restrictions on short-term rentals, such as:

• Limiting the number of occupants based on the number of bedrooms
• Requiring adequate off-street parking
• Prohibiting excessive noise or disruptive behavior

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or penalties.

Discussions on online forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets suggest that while there is demand for short-term rentals in the Miami Lakes area, property owners must navigate the local ordinances carefully.

One Reddit user inquired about the process of obtaining the necessary licenses and insurance for hosting in Miami Lakes, indicating an awareness of the regulations.

Another user mentioned the availability of furnished monthly rentals in Miami Lakes, suggesting that long-term rentals may be more common than short-term options.

Overall, the consensus from these online discussions is that while short-term rentals are permitted in Miami Lakes, property owners must comply with the town's ordinances, obtain the required permits, and adhere to occupancy limits and other restrictions.

It's important to note that regulations can change over time, and property owners should consult official sources or seek professional advice to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Miami Lakes

Operating a short-term rental in Miami Lakes, Florida, requires obtaining a Special Event Permit from the Town of Miami Lakes. The key licensing and permitting requirements are as follows:

1. Special Event Permit: Property owners must apply for a Special Event Permit from the Town of Miami Lakes to operate a short-term rental. The application process involves submitting details about the property, the number of bedrooms, and the maximum occupancy intended.
2. Business Tax Receipt: Hosts may be required to obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the Town of Miami Lakes to comply with local taxation laws for short-term rental operations.
3. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) License: As mandated by state law, hosts must obtain a DBPR license, commonly referred to as the "hotel license" or "lodging license," if they rent their property more than three times in a calendar year for periods of less than 30 days.
4. Florida Department of Revenue Registration: Hosts must register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect and remit applicable taxes, such as the state sales tax and local tourist development taxes.

Failure to comply with these licensing and permitting requirements can result in fines or penalties imposed by the town or state authorities.

It's important to note that the specific requirements and fees associated with obtaining these licenses and permits may be subject to change. Hosts should consult with the relevant authorities or seek professional guidance to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and are in full compliance with all applicable regulations.

Additionally, hosts should be aware that the licensing requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of their rental property, such as the number of units or the type of accommodation offered. It's advisable to provide detailed information about the property during the application process to ensure accurate guidance and compliance.

Required Documents for Miami Lakes Short-Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental in Miami Lakes, Florida, hosts will need to provide various documents as part of the licensing and permitting process. Here are some of the key documents that may be required:

1. Special Event Permit Application: Hosts must complete and submit the Special Event Permit Application to the Town of Miami Lakes. This application requires details about the property, the number of bedrooms, the maximum occupancy intended, and other relevant information.
2. Proof of Ownership or Tenancy: Hosts must provide documentation proving their ownership of the property or their legal right to sublet the property for short-term rentals. This could include a copy of the property deed, mortgage statement, or a written permission from the landlord (if the host is a tenant).
3. Identification Documents: Hosts may be required to submit government-issued identification documents, such as a passport or driver's license, to verify their identity.
4. Proof of Address: Utility bills, property tax statements, or other official documents showing the host's current address may be requested to confirm their residency.
5. Business Tax Receipt Application: Hosts may need to complete and submit an application to obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the Town of Miami Lakes to comply with local taxation laws for short-term rental operations.
6. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) License: As mandated by state law, hosts must obtain a DBPR license if they rent their property more than three times in a calendar year for periods of less than 30 days.
7. Florida Department of Revenue Registration: Hosts must register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect and remit applicable taxes, such as the state sales tax and local tourist development taxes.
8. Insurance Documentation: Short-term rental hosts should have appropriate insurance coverage for their properties. Proof of liability insurance or other relevant insurance documents may be required.
9. Safety Certificates: Depending on the property type, hosts may need to provide safety certificates for gas appliances, electrical installations, and fire safety equipment, ensuring that the property meets the necessary safety standards for guest accommodation.
10. Property Details and Photos: Hosts may be required to provide detailed information about their properties, including descriptions, amenities, and high-quality photographs, to assist potential guests in making informed decisions about their bookings.

It's important to note that the specific document requirements may vary depending on the short-term rental platform or property management company the host chooses to work with. Hosts should carefully review the requirements and guidelines provided by these entities to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues.

Additionally, as regulations surrounding short-term rentals in Miami Lakes may change over time, hosts should stay informed and be prepared to provide any additional documentation that may be required by local authorities or rental platforms.

Miami Lakes Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental business in Miami Lakes, Florida, comes with certain tax obligations that hosts must comply with. Here's an overview of the taxes that may apply to short-term rental income in Miami Lakes:

1. State Sales Tax: Florida imposes a state sales tax on short-term rental income. The current state sales tax rate is 6%.
2. Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Tax: In addition to the state sales tax, hosts in Miami Lakes must collect and remit the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Tax, which is currently set at 6% of the total rental charges.
3. Miami Lakes Local Option Sales Tax: Depending on the specific location of the rental property within Miami Lakes, hosts may also be required to collect and remit a local option sales tax. According to Avalara , the minimum combined sales tax rate for Miami Lakes in 2024 is 7%, which includes the state, county, and local sales taxes.
4. Income Tax: Short-term rental income is considered taxable income, and hosts must report it to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and pay the appropriate federal income tax. The tax rate will depend on the host's total taxable income, including income from other sources.
5. Property Taxes: Hosts must continue to pay property taxes on their short-term rental properties, as these taxes are based on the property's assessed value and are not directly impacted by the rental activity.

It's important to note that tax rates and regulations can change over time, and hosts should regularly consult with tax professionals or seek guidance from the appropriate authorities to ensure they are complying with all applicable tax laws and regulations.

Short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO may provide hosts with tax reporting tools or resources to help them accurately report their rental income and pay the appropriate taxes. However, it is ultimately the host's responsibility to ensure compliance with all tax obligations.

Failure to collect and remit the required taxes can result in penalties, interest charges, and potential legal consequences. Hosts should maintain accurate records of their rental income and expenses to facilitate proper tax reporting and compliance.

Florida Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In recent years, the Florida state legislature has taken steps to establish statewide regulations for short-term rentals, aiming to create a more consistent framework across the state. Here are some key aspects of the Florida-wide short-term rental rules:

1. Preemption of Local Regulations: The state has preempted local governments from enacting certain regulations related to short-term rentals. This means that cities and counties cannot prohibit short-term rentals entirely or impose restrictions on the duration or frequency of rentals.
2. Statewide Licensing and Registration: The state has implemented a statewide licensing and registration system for short-term rentals. Property owners are required to obtain a license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and register their rental properties with the state.
3. Occupancy Limits: The state has established occupancy limits for short-term rentals based on the number of bedrooms in the property. These limits are designed to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of guests and neighboring properties.
4. Advertising Platforms Responsibilities: Online advertising platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are required to collect and remit taxes on behalf of hosts and ensure that listings comply with state regulations, including displaying the appropriate license numbers.
5. Local Regulations and Fees: While the state has preempted certain local regulations, local governments are still permitted to impose reasonable regulations and fees related to short-term rentals. This includes the ability to require local registration, impose occupancy taxes, and enforce noise, parking, and other ordinances that apply to all residential properties.
6. Grandfathering of Existing Local Ordinances: In some cases, existing local ordinances regulating short-term rentals that were in place before a certain date may be grandfathered in and allowed to remain in effect.

It's important to note that the implementation and enforcement of these statewide rules may vary across different counties and municipalities in Florida. Additionally, the rules and regulations surrounding short-term rentals are subject to ongoing legislative changes and legal challenges.

Property owners and short-term rental operators in Florida are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and consult with local authorities or legal professionals to ensure compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.

Does Miami Lakes Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on the discussions on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, it appears that Miami Lakes is generally not considered an Airbnb-friendly city, and the town enforces its short-term rental regulations strictly.

On Bigger Pockets, there are multiple threads from users inquiring about the feasibility of operating short-term rentals in Miami Lakes. The responses indicate that the town has specific ordinances and permitting requirements in place, making it challenging for hosts to operate legally.

One user mentioned listing their property on Airbnb in Miami Lakes but faced difficulties in securing bookings, potentially due to the town's regulations and restrictions.

Additionally, the Reddit discussions highlight instances where users faced issues with noise complaints, illegal parking, and trash concerns related to short-term rentals in Miami Lakes, suggesting that the town takes enforcement actions against non-compliant properties.

Overall, the consensus from these online discussions is that Miami Lakes strictly enforces its short-term rental rules. While some hosts may attempt to operate despite the regulations, the town appears to be proactive in addressing violations and ensuring compliance with its ordinances.

Compared to other cities in the region, Miami Lakes seems to have a more stringent approach to regulating short-term rentals. This stance likely stems from concerns about the impact of such rentals on residential neighborhoods and the desire to maintain the town's character and quality of life for its residents.

Aspiring hosts in Miami Lakes should carefully review the town's ordinances, permitting requirements, and enforcement practices before considering operating a short-term rental. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in fines, penalties, or legal consequences.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Miami Lakes

Starting a short-term rental business in Miami Lakes, Florida, requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Research the Market: Conduct thorough market research to understand the demand for short-term rentals in Miami Lakes. Analyze occupancy rates, average daily rates, and competition in the areas you're interested in. Utilize resources like BNBCalc to gather data-driven insights.
2. Understand Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local regulations governing short-term rentals in Miami Lakes. Review the town's ordinances, permitting requirements, and any restrictions or limitations imposed by the authorities.
3. Choose the Right Property: Identify a property that meets the requirements for short-term rentals. Consider factors such as location, accessibility, amenities, and potential guest preferences. Ensure the property is in a zoning district that permits short-term rentals.
4. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Obtain the required licenses and permits from the Town of Miami Lakes, including the Special Event Permit and Business Tax Receipt. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) License and register with the Florida Department of Revenue.
5. Prepare the Property: Ensure your property is well-maintained, clean, and equipped with essential amenities. Invest in high-quality bedding, towels, and furnishings to provide a comfortable experience for guests. Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and obtain safety certificates as required.
6. Set Up Your Listing: Create attractive and informative listings on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Include high-quality photographs, detailed descriptions, and accurate pricing information.
7. Manage Bookings and Guest Communication: Develop a system for managing bookings, guest inquiries, and communication. Consider using property management software or hiring a professional property management company to streamline operations.
8. Comply with Tax Obligations: Familiarize yourself with the tax implications of short-term rentals in Miami Lakes. You will need to collect and remit the state sales tax, Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Tax, and potentially local option sales taxes.
9. Implement Guest Policies and House Rules: Establish clear guest policies and house rules to ensure a positive experience for both guests and neighbors. Address issues such as noise levels, parking, and check-in/check-out procedures.
10. Market Your Rental: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your short-term rental. Utilize social media platforms, local listings, and targeted advertising to reach potential guests.
11. Continuously Improve: Seek guest feedback and reviews to identify areas for improvement. Stay up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and best practices to maintain a competitive edge in the short-term rental market.

Remember, starting a short-term rental business requires dedication, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences. Seek professional advice when necessary and prioritize compliance with local regulations to ensure the long-term success of your venture.

Who to Contact in Miami Lakes about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or need guidance regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Miami Lakes, you can contact the following departments:

Miami Lakes Code Compliance Department
Phone: (305) 512-7130
Email: codecompliance@miamilakes-fl.gov

The Code Compliance Department is responsible for enforcing the town's ordinances, including those related to short-term rentals. They can provide information on the specific requirements and regulations that apply to operating a short-term rental in Miami Lakes.

Miami Lakes Zoning Department
Phone: (305) 364-6100
Email: endaraf@miamilakes-fl.gov

The Zoning Department oversees land use and development regulations, including zoning classifications that determine whether short-term rentals are permitted in a particular area. They can assist you in determining the zoning classification of your property and the applicable regulations.

It's advisable to have all the relevant details about your property, such as the address, zoning classification, and any existing permits or licenses, ready before contacting these departments. This will help them provide accurate and specific information tailored to your situation.

Remember, while these departments can offer guidance on the local regulations and requirements, it's always best to consult with them directly to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information for your particular case.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Miami Lakes on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Based on the available information from Reddit and Bigger Pockets, there are limited discussions specifically about Airbnb regulations in Miami Lakes. However, here are a few relevant sources that provide some insights:

Reddit user: This user expressed concerns about the legality of Airbnbs in South Florida, including Miami Lakes, and sought information on where short-term rentals are legal or illegal within the region.

Bigger Pockets user: A prospective host inquired about operating an Airbnb in Miami Lakes, indicating an interest in the area but a lack of clarity regarding the local regulations.

Reddit user: While not specific to Miami Lakes, this user shared frustrations about the impact of Airbnbs on the housing market in Miami, suggesting a need for stricter regulations or licensing schemes.

Bigger Pockets user: This user sought information on Airbnb-friendly cities in Southeast Florida, including Miami-Dade County, where Miami Lakes is located.

Overall, the limited discussions on these platforms suggest that there is uncertainty and a lack of clear information regarding the specific regulations governing short-term rentals in Miami Lakes. While some users express interest in operating Airbnbs in the area, others raise concerns about the potential impact on housing affordability and the need for stricter regulations.

The absence of substantial discussions could indicate that the regulations in Miami Lakes are either not overly restrictive or that hosts are operating without significant challenges from the authorities. However, it is advisable for prospective hosts to consult official sources and local authorities to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on the applicable regulations and requirements.

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.