Minneola Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Minneola

Minneola, located in Lake County, Florida, is a growing city that attracts many tourists and short-term renters. Before starting a vacation rental business in Minneola, it's important to understand the local regulations.

The City of Minneola has specific rules for short-term rentals in its Code of Ordinances. All short-term rental operators must obtain a Rental License from the city. The Rental License Application can be found on the city's website.

Minneola also has zoning restrictions on where short-term rentals are allowed. The city's Planning & Zoning Department is responsible for enforcing these rules. Contacting them is a good first step before purchasing an investment property to use as a short-term rental.

Some key requirements for short-term rentals in Minneola include:

• Obtaining a Rental License from the city
• Paying applicable rental fees, which vary for residents vs non-residents
• Adhering to maximum occupancy limits based on the size of the property
• Following rules on parking, noise, and trash

Rental properties that allow alcohol consumption have additional requirements, such as obtaining host liquor liability insurance and hiring a security officer.

It's also important to be aware that short-term rental regulations in Florida are constantly evolving. For example, in 2021, the state passed a law preventing cities from banning short-term rentals. However, cities like Minneola can still impose rules and restrictions.

Some real estate investors recommend carefully choosing a property that is already zoned to allow short-term rentals to avoid issues if regulations change. Checking with the local zoning department is advised.

While operating a short-term rental from out-of-state is possible, many hosts find it easier to be on-site to interact with guests and quickly handle any issues that arise. Having a local property manager is an option for remote hosts.

Overall, the short-term rental market in Minneola appears to be growing, with over 20 active Airbnb listings and around 18 temporary housing rentals available. By following the city's rules and prioritizing guest experience, hosts can run a successful short-term rental business in this popular Florida destination.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Minneola

The City of Minneola requires all short-term rental operators to obtain an annual Rental License from the city. Here are the key requirements to obtain a Short-Term Rental License in Minneola:

1. Completed Rental License Application, signed by the property owner
2. Copy of the property owner's driver's license or state ID
3. Copy of the property record card or deed showing proof of ownership
4. If owned by a company, copy of company documents from Sunbiz.org
5. If a property management company is applying on behalf of the owner, a copy of the management agreement authorizing them to do so
6. Rental license fees:
   - $50 for single family homes
   - $30 per unit for buildings with 2-5 units
   - $20 per unit for buildings with more than 5 units
7. Name and contact information for a designated 24/7 local contact person situated within 1 hour of the property to handle any issues

To apply, submit the completed Rental License Application along with all required documents and fees to:

City of Minneola
Attn: City Clerk's Office
800 N. US Hwy 27
Minneola, FL 34715

Applications can be submitted in person or by mail. The city accepts payments by cash or check only.

The typical processing time for a Rental License is approximately 2 weeks from the receipt of a complete application. Licenses are issued for a period of one year, from October 1 through September 30, and must be renewed annually.

Failure to obtain a required Rental License for a short-term rental is a violation of city code. The City of Minneola may impose fines and penalties against any property owner operating an unlicensed short-term rental. Fines can be up to $500 per day and the rental operates without a valid license.

It's important to note that in addition to a Rental License from the city, short-term rental operators in Florida must also obtain a Transient Public Lodging Establishment License from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and register with the Florida Department of Revenue and county tax collector to collect and remit required state and local taxes.

By carefully following the city's short-term rental licensing requirements and staying up-to-date on any regulation changes, hosts can operate successful and compliant short-term rental businesses in Minneola. The city provides resources and information on its website to assist short-term rental operators with the licensing process.

Required Documents for Minneola Short-Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental in Minneola, property owners must submit the following documents to the City Clerk's office when applying for a Rental License:

1. Completed Rental License Application
   - This form collects key information about the rental property, owner, property manager (if applicable), and 24/7 local contact person.
2. Copy of the property owner's driver's license or state ID
   - Verifies the identity of the rental property owner.
3. Copy of the property record card or deed showing proof of ownership
   - Can be obtained from the Lake County Property Appraiser's website at www.lakecopropappr.com. Demonstrates that the applicant owns the rental property.
4. If owned by a company, a copy of company documents from Sunbiz.org
   - For properties owned by an LLC or other business entity, the applicant must provide the company's registration information from the Florida Division of Corporations, available at www.sunbiz.org.
5. If a property management company is applying on behalf of the owner, a copy of the management agreement authorizing them to do so
   - When a third-party property manager is handling the rental process, they must submit a signed agreement from the owner granting them authority to apply for the license.

In addition to these city-required documents, short-term rental operators in Florida must also:

1. Obtain a license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
   - Vacation rental owners must verify with DBPR which license is appropriate for their rental business at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/licensing/vrtsp-guide/
2. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue
   - Even if using a platform like Airbnb or VRBO that collects and remits taxes, owners must create an account with the Department of Revenue to report rental income. See https://floridarevenue.com/Forms_library/current/gt800034.pdf

By gathering these required documents and submitting them with their Rental License Application, short-term rental owners in Minneola can ensure they are operating in compliance with all applicable city, county, and state regulations. The City of Minneola provides the Rental License Application and detailed instructions on its website to guide owners through the process.

Minneola Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental operators in Minneola are required to collect and remit several types of taxes on their rental income:

1. Florida Sales Tax (6%)-The statewide sales tax rate in Florida is 6% and applies to all short-term rental income. This tax is administered by the Florida Department of Revenue.
2. Lake County Discretionary Sales Surtax (1%) - Lake County, where Minneola is located, imposes an additional 1% discretionary sales surtax on top of the state sales tax. This means the total sales tax rate in Minneola is 7%.
3. Lake County Tourist Development Tax (4%) - Lake County also levies a 4% Tourist Development Tax, sometimes called a resort tax or bed tax, on short-term rental income. This tax is collected by the Lake County Tax Collector in addition to the state and county sales taxes.

So, in total, short-term rental operators in Minneola must add 11% in taxes to their rental rates - 6% for state sales tax, 1% for county surtax, and 4% for county tourist tax. For example, on a $1,000 weekly rental, the taxes would be:

1. Florida Sales Tax (6%): $60
2. Lake County Surtax (1%): $10
3. Lake County Tourist Tax (4%): $40
4. Total Taxes (11%): $110

These taxes must be collected from the renter and then remitted to the proper state and local agencies, usually on a monthly basis. Failing to collect and remit the required taxes can result in penalties and interest.

Fortunately, short-term rental operators can deduct many of their business expenses to reduce their taxable income. Some common deductible expenses include:

1. Mortgage interest
2. Property taxes
3. Rental unit utilities
4. Cleaning and maintenance costs
5. Supplies for guests
6. Advertising and platform fees
7. Property management fees
8. Depreciation on the rental property

Careful record-keeping is essential to claim these deductions. Short-term rental hosts should maintain detailed records of their rental income and expenses and consult with a qualified tax professional to ensure they are in full compliance with all applicable tax laws. By understanding the tax obligations and strategically utilizing deductions, short-term rental operators can optimize their profits while staying on the right side of state and local tax regulations.

Florida Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to local regulations in Minneola, short-term rental hosts must also comply with state-level rules in Florida. Here are some of the key state requirements:

Vacation Rental License

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires all vacation rental owners to obtain a license for any property rented more than three times a year, for periods of less than 30 days. The initial license application fee is $150, with a $150 renewal fee required annually.

Sales and Tourist Taxes

Short-term rental operators must collect and remit the 6% state sales tax, plus any applicable local option taxes, which vary by county. Lake County, where Minneola is located, levies an additional 5% in local taxes (1% discretionary sales surtax and 4% tourist development tax). These taxes must be registered for and paid to the Florida Department of Revenue.

Property Taxes

If a property is rented for more than six months (180 days) per year, it is subject to property taxes at a higher rate of 10% of assessed value, versus the 4-6% rate for homesteaded properties. Many counties also have their own tangible personal property taxes that may apply to rental properties.

Homeowners Association Rules

If the rental property is located within a homeowners association (HOA) or condominium association, additional rules and restrictions may apply. Florida law allows associations to amend their governing documents to restrict short-term rentals, so it's important to review the specific HOA rules.

Sanitation and Safety

The Florida Department of Health requires vacation rentals to meet certain safety and sanitation standards, such as providing soap, clean linens, and functioning smoke detectors. Rentals must also comply with the Florida Building Code and Fire Prevention Code.

Insurance Requirements

While not legally mandated, short-term rental insurance is highly recommended to protect against property damage and liability claims from guests. Homeowners insurance typically does not cover commercial rental activity. Platforms like Airbnb provide some host protection, but comprehensive short-term rental insurance offers more robust coverage.

By understanding and adhering to these statewide short-term rental regulations, in addition to Minneola's local rules, hosts can ensure they are operating their rental business legally and responsibly. The Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA) is a helpful resource for staying up-to-date on regulatory changes impacting the industry across the state.

Does Minneola Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in real estate investing forums, Minneola appears to be less Airbnb-friendly compared to some other cities in Florida. While there are active short-term rental listings in Minneola, the city does have rules in place restricting them, which they seem to enforce.

On the Bigger Pockets forums, one investor noted that in their experience, Lake County, where Minneola is located, "requires 3 different licenses/permits, and you need to get a tax certificate. You also better make sure you abide by occupancy rules, noise regs, etc. The county requires a rental contract, drivers license on the guest that books, and they have the right to inspect your house at any time."

They went on to say that "If any neighbor complains to the STR hotline (which Lake County has specifically for complaints), you are fined after 2 complaints. Believe me, neighbors hate STRs so you better believe they will turn you in or inquire if you have the proper permitting."

This suggests that Minneola and Lake County are fairly strict about enforcing their short-term rental regulations. Hosts can't just ignore the rules and hope to fly under the radar.

On Reddit, hosts debated whether it's worth trying to skirt short-term rental restrictions in cities that have them. The consensus was that it's risky and not advised. As one host put it: "Free men don't ask permission. Do it." But others pushed back, saying, "I wish that were true, but we are not that free...Quite a few rentals either deliberately ignored the ordinances or were unaware of the changes. Either way, in the first couple months of the new ordinance, the city collected over $100,000 in fines. I would definitely not encourage ignorance."

So, in summary, while there are some active Airbnb listings in Minneola, the city and county appear to be fairly aggressive about enforcing their short-term rental rules through permits, inspections, and fines in response to complaints. Operating an STR without the proper licensing is very risky. Compared to other Florida cities with looser or no restrictions, Minneola is not particularly Airbnb-friendly based on the strict local regulations in place. Hosts should carefully research and follow all applicable rules before considering short-term renting in Minneola.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Minneola

If you've weighed the risks and rewards and decided to start a short-term rental business in Minneola, here are the key steps to follow:

1. Research zoning and regulations: Carefully review Minneola's short-term rental ordinance and zoning code to ensure your property is eligible to operate as a STR. Contact the city's Planning & Zoning Department with any questions.
2. Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Apply for a Rental License from the City of Minneola, which must be renewed annually. You'll also need to obtain a state Vacation Rental License from the Florida DBPR.
3. Register with tax agencies: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue and Lake County Tax Collector to collect and remit the required sales and tourist development taxes. Consult a tax professional for guidance.
4. Prepare the property: Ensure the rental unit is clean, safe, and well-maintained. Provide all required amenities like linens, soap, and kitchen essentials. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service between guests.
5. Create a detailed listing: Take high-quality photos and write an accurate, compelling description of your rental property. Highlight unique selling points and amenities. Be transparent about any quirks or limitations.
6. Set competitive rates: Research similar listings in Minneola to determine a competitive nightly rate for your property. Factor in your operating costs, desired profit margin, and occupancy rate goals. Consider using dynamic pricing tools to automatically adjust rates based on demand.
7. Implement a screening process: Protect your investment by thoroughly screening potential guests. Require verified IDs, positive reviews from previous hosts, and a rental agreement outlining house rules and expectations.
8. Automate your systems: Use vacation rental software like Guesty, Hostfully, or Lodgify to streamline booking, communication, cleaning, and other operational tasks. These tools can save significant time and effort.
9. Provide excellent customer service: Respond promptly and professionally to all guest inquiries, both pre-booking and during their stay. Go above and beyond to create a memorable experience that will generate 5-star reviews and repeat bookings.
10. Continuously optimize and improve: Regularly assess your listing's performance and guest feedback. Make necessary improvements to your property, pricing, and processes. Stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulatory changes in Minneola and Florida.

By following these steps and prioritizing compliance with Minneola's short-term rental regulations, you can build a successful and sustainable vacation rental business in this popular Florida destination. While the city's rules may be stricter than some other markets, diligent operators can still thrive by providing an exceptional guest experience within the legal framework.

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

If you have questions about Minneola's short-term rental regulations, licensing requirements, or zoning restrictions, here are the key city departments and contacts to reach out to:

Planning & Zoning Department

Phone: (352) 394-3598 ext. 103
Email: planning@minneola.us
Address: 800 N. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL 34715

Contact the Planning & Zoning Department to verify if a specific property is zoned to allow short-term rentals and to ask any questions about the city's vacation rental ordinance.

City Clerk's Office

Phone: (352) 394-3598 ext. 112
Email: cityclerk@minneola.us
Address: 800 N. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL 34715

The City Clerk's Office handles applications and renewals for the city's required Rental License. They can assist with questions about the licensing process, fees, and required documents.

Code Enforcement Division

Phone: (352) 394-3598 ext. 107
Email: codeenforcement@minneola.us
Address: 800 N. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL 34715

If you have concerns about a short-term rental property violating city codes or operating without proper licensing, you can file a complaint with the Code Enforcement Division. They investigate alleged violations and issue citations as needed.

In addition to these Minneola city contacts, short-term rental operators can also get information from:

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

Phone: (850) 487-1395
Website: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/licensing/vacation-rental-license/

DBPR handles licensing for vacation rentals at the state level. Their website has a helpful FAQ section addressing common questions about Florida's vacation rental regulations.

Florida Vacation Rental Management Association (FVRMA)

Phone: (407) 774-7807
Website: https://fvrma.org/

FVRMA is a trade association serving Florida's vacation rental industry. They provide educational resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for vacation rental professionals. Their website features a "Regulations" section with information on regulatory issues affecting the industry statewide.

By reaching out to these key contacts and resources, short-term rental operators in Minneola can get answers to their specific questions and ensure they are in full compliance with all applicable city, county, and state regulations. Clear communication with local officials is essential for running a successful and legally compliant vacation rental business.

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

While there aren't many discussions specifically about Minneola's short-term rental regulations on forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, some hosts in the broader Orlando and Central Florida area have shared their experiences and thoughts:

On the Bigger Pockets forums, one real estate investor asked about investing in short-term rentals in the Clermont/Minneola area of Lake County. They noted that while they have experience investing there, they think "Lake County has some upside potential considering the huge amount of growth in neighboring Orange County." This suggests that despite regulations, some investors still see opportunities in the Minneola short-term rental market.

In a Reddit thread titled "The bottom has fallen out," a South Florida Airbnb host lamented that bookings and revenue have drastically declined in 2024 compared to the post-pandemic boom of 2022-2023. They noted an influx of new Airbnb listings and that "there's no way that all these Airbnbs around me can possibly be making enough of a profit to cover costs."

While this host wasn't in Minneola specifically, their experience likely reflects broader trends in the Florida short-term rental market as it becomes more saturated and competitive. Some commenters suggested that "a culling" of hosts who bought at the peak expecting easy profits is inevitable.

Another Reddit thread from an Orlando-area host asked if they are allowed to Airbnb a property they are renting themselves. Commenters advised them to check city and county ordinances regulating short-term rentals, indicating that local rules definitely impact hosting abilities in the area.

On the Airbnb Community forum, a host asked where in Florida has restricted short-term rentals. A Community Leader noted that while the state has passed laws limiting local STR restrictions, cities and counties that had regulations in place before 2011 can keep them. They advised any new host to carefully research the rules in their specific location before listing.

Overall, while there isn't an abundance of Minneola-specific discussion, it seems that hosts in the Orlando and Central Florida area are definitely aware of and impacted by local short-term rental regulations. Between county taxes, permitting requirements, and the potential for future restrictions, hosts appear to be operating in an increasingly complex and competitive environment. As one Bigger Pockets user put it, successful STR investing in this area likely requires careful research, conservative underwriting, and the ability to adapt to changing 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.