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

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

Oviedo, Florida, is a popular city for Airbnb and VRBO rentals due to its proximity to Orlando and abundance of outdoor activities. However, before starting a short-term rental business in Oviedo, it's important to understand the local regulations and zoning codes that apply. Here's an overview of the key rules for operating vacation rentals in Oviedo.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Oviedo

To legally operate a short-term rental in Oviedo, hosts must obtain a vacation rental permit from the city and comply with various safety and noise regulations. The permitting process ensures the property meets all building codes, fire safety, and property standards requirements.

Zoning is another important consideration. Oviedo's zoning code does not explicitly define or regulate "short-term rentals." Residential uses are generally allowed in most districts, but operating an STR as a commercial business may require a zoning variance or special exception depending on the scale and nature of the operation.

Some key requirements for Oviedo STRs include:

• Providing sufficient parking for guests without impacting neighbors
• Limiting occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, up to a maximum of 10 people total (excluding children under 6)
• Restricting noise and nuisances, especially during overnight hours
• Properly managing garbage and recycling
• Paying all applicable state and local taxes

While Oviedo doesn't have a strict limit on the number of nights per year a property can be rented short-term, some HOAs and neighborhood covenants may impose their own restrictions. It's important for hosts to carefully review any rules that apply to their specific property.

Overall, Oviedo takes a relatively permissive approach to regulating vacation rentals compared to some larger Florida cities. However, hosts still need to follow the proper registration and safety requirements to operate legally and avoid problems.

As one Airbnb host shared on Reddit:

"I've been running an Airbnb in Oviedo for over a year now without any major issues from the city. As long as you're not causing disturbances or converting entire homes into party houses, they seem to take a hands-off approach. But definitely get your permit and follow the occupancy limits."

By complying with Oviedo's STR regulations and being a responsible host, Airbnb, and VRBO operators can find success in this attractive market. The small-town atmosphere and natural amenities continue to draw visitors, making Oviedo a great place to invest in the short-term rental business.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Oviedo

To legally launch and operate a short-term rental in Oviedo, hosts must obtain a vacation rental permit from the city. The permitting process ensures the property meets all building code, fire safety, and property standards requirements.

Oviedo's zoning code does not explicitly define or regulate "short-term rentals." Residential uses are generally allowed in most districts, but operating an STR as a commercial business may require a zoning variance or special exception depending on the scale and nature of the operation.

The city enforces various regulations on short-term rentals, including:

1. Limiting occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, up to a maximum of 10 people total (excluding children under 6)
2. Restricting noise and nuisances, especially during overnight hours
3. Requiring sufficient parking for guests without impacting neighbors
4. Properly managing garbage and recycling

Failure to obtain the required vacation rental permit or comply with STR regulations can result in fines and penalties from the city. Hosts should contact the Oviedo Planning Division for the most current permitting requirements and application process.

Required Documents for Oviedo Short-Term Rentals

When applying for a vacation rental permit in Oviedo, hosts must submit several required documents, including:

1. Completed Vacation Rental Permit Application
2. Proof of property ownership or authorization from the owner to operate an STR
3. Floorplan sketch showing the number and location of bedrooms to be rented
4. Parking plan demonstrating sufficient on-site parking for guests
5. Designated local contact person, such as yourself or a property manager, available 24/7 to respond to any issues
6. Proof of business tax receipt from Seminole County
7. Proof of licensure with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for transient rentals
8. Proof of registration with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax collection
9. Certificate of occupancy and any required building permits
10. Inspection reports showing compliance with applicable fire and building codes

Other documents may be required depending on the specific property. The city may also conduct an on-site home inspection prior to issuing the vacation rental permit.

Once issued, the permit must be renewed annually and is non-transferable if the property ownership changes. Any modifications to the rental, such as increasing the bedroom count, may require a permit amendment.

By gathering these required documents and carefully following Oviedo's short-term rental regulations, hosts can operate their vacation rentals legally and successfully. The permitting process helps ensure STRs are safe and compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.

Oviedo Short-Term Rental Taxes

In addition to obtaining the required vacation rental permit, short-term rental operators in Oviedo must also comply with state and local tax obligations.

At the state level, Florida charges a 6% sales tax on all transient rentals less than six months in duration. This tax must be collected from guests and remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue.

Seminole County, where Oviedo is located, also imposes a 5% Tourist Development Tax on short-term rentals. This tax is on top of the state sales tax and applies to all rentals of six months or less. STR hosts are responsible for registering with the Seminole County Tax Collector's Office, collecting the tax from guests, and filing regular tax returns.

Failure to comply with these tax requirements can result in penalties and interest charges. Hosts should maintain detailed records of their rental income and tax payments in case of an audit.

It's important to note that while platforms like Airbnb may collect and remit some taxes on behalf of hosts, the ultimate responsibility for compliance lies with the individual STR operator. Consulting with a tax professional can help ensure all obligations are being met.

Florida Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to local regulations in cities like Oviedo, there are also some statewide rules that apply to all short-term rentals in Florida. These include:

1. Licensing: If a property is rented for periods of less than 30 days more than three times per year, the owner must obtain a Vacation Rental Dwelling License from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). This involves an initial inspection and annual renewals.
2. Occupancy Limits: A new state law passed in 2023 (SB 714) caps occupancy at vacation rentals to two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons per property. Children under 6 are not counted toward the limit. Local governments cannot impose more restrictive caps.
3. Minimum Stays: While some local governments previously had minimum stay requirements for STRs, a 2011 state law prohibits such restrictions. However, HOAs and condo associations can still impose minimum stays.
4. Parking: The 2023 state law also prohibits local governments from requiring STRs to have more onsite parking spaces than residential properties. But again, HOAs and condo associations can set their own parking rules.
5. Advertising: All advertising for vacation rentals must include the DBPR license number and the local business tax receipt number, if applicable. Fines of up to $1,000 per day can be imposed for non-compliance.
6. Sexual Offenders: STR owners are required to perform a background check on all guests to ensure they are not sexual offenders or predators. Fines of up to $5,000 can be imposed for renting to such individuals.

These statewide rules provide a baseline, but it's crucial for STR operators to also understand their local city and county regulations, as well as any HOA or condo association restrictions that may apply. Navigating the full scope of short-term rental compliance in Florida requires diligent research and attention to detail.

Does Oviedo Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions among Airbnb hosts on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, Oviedo appears to take a relatively hands-off approach to enforcing short-term rental regulations compared to some larger Florida cities. While Oviedo requires STR operators to obtain a vacation rental permit and follow various safety, occupancy, and noise rules, active enforcement seems limited unless complaints arise.

This has made Oviedo fairly Airbnb-friendly in practice, even if the city hasn't explicitly promoted STRs. Several hosts on Bigger Pockets have highlighted Oviedo as an attractive market for investing in vacation rentals, citing the lack of strict regulations compared to places like Orlando proper. The small-town atmosphere and proximity to natural attractions continue to draw visitors.

One Airbnb host on Reddit shared their experience: "I've been operating an STR in Oviedo for over a year without any major issues from the city. As long as you're not causing disturbances or violating occupancy limits, they seem to take a live-and-let-live approach. Getting the initial permit was straightforward."

Of course, this leniency is not a blank check for STR operators to ignore the rules entirely. Oviedo can and does take enforcement action in response to serious resident complaints or blatant violations. Hosts still need to be responsible and respectful to avoid spurring a regulatory crackdown.

As one Bigger Pockets user cautioned, "Oviedo is a great place for vacation rentals now, but don't get greedy or careless. Follow the permitting and operating requirements, be a good neighbor, and fly under the radar as much as possible. The regulatory winds can always shift if STRs start causing real problems."

So, in summary, while Oviedo is undoubtedly more Airbnb-friendly than some major tourist hubs that have reined in STRs aggressively, hosts still can't completely ignore the city's rules without consequence. But for responsible operators, Oviedo offers an attractive, lower-regulation alternative to running vacation rentals in the Orlando area. The key is being a compliant, considerate host to maintain this status quo.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Oviedo

If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Oviedo, here are the key steps to follow:

1. Research the local market and regulations:
   - Familiarize yourself with Oviedo's zoning code, permitting requirements, and any specific rules related to short-term rentals.
   - Understand the state-level regulations that apply, such as the DBPR licensing and occupancy limits.
   - Assess the demand for vacation rentals in Oviedo and identify your target guest demographics.
2. Choose the right property:
   - Evaluate the location, size, amenities, and condition of potential rental properties.
   - Consider factors like proximity to attractions, neighborhood character, and HOA rules.
   - Analyze the potential rental income and occupancy rates for comparable properties in the area.
3. Obtain necessary permits and licenses:
   - Apply for a Vacation Rental Permit from the City of Oviedo, providing all required documents and plans.
   - Obtain a Vacation Rental Dwelling License from the Florida DBPR, including an initial inspection.
   - Register with the Seminole County Tax Collector's Office for collection of the Tourist Development Tax.
4. Prepare your property for guests:
   - Make any necessary repairs, upgrades, or renovations to ensure the property is safe, attractive, and functional.
   - Furnish and decorate the space to create a welcoming atmosphere that aligns with your target market.
   - Stock the rental with essential amenities, supplies, and safety equipment.
5. Establish your business operations:
   - Choose an appropriate business structure, such as a sole proprietorship or LLC.
   - Open a separate bank account for your rental business to manage finances.
   - Obtain appropriate insurance coverage, including property and liability protection.
6. Create your listing and marketing strategy:
   - List your property on popular vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO
   - Develop compelling listing descriptions and high-quality photos that showcase your property's best features.
   - Set competitive nightly rates based on market research and your revenue goals.
7. Develop a guest management system:
   - Establish clear check-in and check-out procedures, including key exchange and house rules.
   - Create a welcome book with property information, local recommendations, and emergency contacts.
   - Hire a reliable cleaning service or develop a thorough cleaning checklist to prepare for each new guest.
8. Comply with ongoing regulations and taxes:
   - Collect and remit the appropriate state and local taxes on your rental income.
   - Renew your vacation rental permit and DBPR license annually, as required.
   - Maintain accurate records of all rental transactions, expenses, and tax payments.
9. Be a responsible host and neighbor:
   - Communicate promptly and professionally with guests before, during, and after their stay.
   - Address any guest concerns or maintenance issues in a timely manner.
   - Be respectful of your neighbors and ensure your guests follow all rules regarding noise, parking, and occupancy.
10. Continuously improve and adapt your business:
    - Seek feedback from guests and use it to make enhancements to your property and service.
    - Stay informed about changes in local regulations or market conditions that could impact your business.
    - Analyze your performance data regularly and adjust your strategies to optimize occupancy and profitability.

By following these steps and operating your short-term rental responsibly, you can build a successful and sustainable business in Oviedo. While the city's regulations are relatively lenient compared to some larger markets, it's still essential to comply with all permitting, licensing, and tax requirements to avoid potential penalties and maintain positive community relations.

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

If you have questions about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Oviedo, the best place to start is by contacting the City of Oviedo's Planning Division. They can provide guidance on the current rules, permitting requirements, and any potential changes being considered.

Contact information:

Planning Division
City of Oviedo
320 Alexandria Boulevard
Annex Building, 2nd Floor
Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone: 407-971-5776
Email: planning@cityofoviedo.net

You can reach out to Debra Pierre, the Planning Manager, directly by email at dpierre@cityofoviedo.net or by phone at 407-971-5776 for specific inquiries related to short-term rental zoning and regulations.

The Planning Division is responsible for processing permit applications, enforcing zoning regulations, and providing information on land use and development projects in Oviedo. They can help you understand the specific requirements for operating a short-term rental property in the city.

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

While there are limited discussions specifically about Oviedo's short-term rental regulations on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, some insights can be gleaned from hosts' experiences in the broader Orlando and Central Florida area:

Reddit user ottomotion shared in the r/airbnb_hosts subreddit that their properties near Disney World in Kissimmee (close to Oviedo) were struggling with low occupancy rates in 2023, possibly due to market saturation and changes in travel patterns. They noted that their other properties in different locations were performing much better.

In a thread on r/AirBnBHosts, a new host in Florida sought advice on their listing. Commenters provided tips on house rules, pricing, and cancellation policies that could be applicable to Oviedo hosts as well. The general consensus was to have clear guidelines and protect against last-minute cancellations in peak seasons.

On Bigger Pockets, a discussion about investing in short-term rentals near Orlando suggested that the market has become more challenging due to increased supply and savvy guests using algorithms to find the best deals. One commenter, who works for a property management company, advised hosts to adjust their expectations for revenue compared to previous years.

While these discussions don't directly address Oviedo's regulatory environment, they highlight some of the broader market trends and challenges that hosts in the area are navigating. Oviedo's relatively permissive approach to short-term rentals, with no specific licensing requirements as of 2023, may be a draw for investors. However, the city's rules around occupancy limits, noise, parking, and other operational aspects still need to be carefully followed to avoid issues.

As always, it's important for hosts to do their own research, consult with local authorities and experienced operators, and stay informed about any potential changes to regulations that could impact their short-term rental business in Oviedo.

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.