To operate a short-term rental in Miami, you must comply with various state, county, and city requirements. The following is a comprehensive guideline for Miami’s short-term rental regulations, designed to help individuals become responsible hosts. This rundown gives you a reliable starting point for understanding your local laws.
Short-Term Rental Requirements in Florida
Prospective hosts must obtain a lodging business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to operate a short-term rental in Miami. Depending on the size and structure of the property, this license can be held by either the property owner or a licensed real estate agent. Hosts must also register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect, report, and remit sales tax and surtax.
The DBPR issues two types of vacation rental licenses:
- Vacation Rental Dwelling License (single-family homes, townhomes, duplexes, etc.)
- Vacation Rental Condo License (condominiums or cooperatives)
As of 2025, the DBPR license expires annually on October 1. The fees are $170 annually, $90 semi-annually, and a $50 application fee. Operators managing multiple units can apply for a group license and calculate fees using the DBPR fee calculator.
Short-Term Rental Requirements in Miami-Dade County
In addition to Florida regulations, Miami-Dade County has its own rules. Written approval must be provided if an HOA or condo association governs a property.
Operators must obtain a Certificate of Use (CU) by applying online or at the Miami-Dade Permitting and Inspection Center. Registration documents must be submitted, including those from the Florida Department of Revenue.
2025 fees include:
- $37 for the certificate
- $90 for inspection
- $10 surcharge
Total: $137
After application and payment, the city requires an inspection to be scheduled within 10 business days. Hosts must present all documentation during the inspection. A Certificate Number is issued upon approval and should be posted prominently on the rental property.
Certificates are valid for one year and must be renewed annually if compliant with all Miami-Dade regulations.
Short-Term Rental Requirements in the City of Miami
The City of Miami permits short-term rentals in specific transit zones outlined on the official Miami Zoning Map. Only structures approved for lodging can operate as short-term rentals.
Permitted lodging zones include:
- T4-R (warrant required)
- T4-L, T4-O (allowed by right)
- T5-R (permitted by exception)
- T5-L, T5-O; T6-L, T6-O; CI-HD, D1 (allowed by right or exception depending on zone)
Applicants can apply for a warrant permit and an exception permit from the City of Miami’s official website.
To start, determine your property’s zone and land use designation. Then apply for:
Steps for BTR:
- Secure CU
- Gather all necessary documentation
- Apply online
- Resolve any outstanding issues
- Pay Invoice
- Receive interim BTR via email
Don’t forget: A Miami-Dade Local Business Tax Receipt is also required.
Condominium/Apartment Hotels in the City of Miami
Ongoing legal disputes between Airbnb and the City of Miami have resulted in stringent restrictions on short-term rentals. As of 2025, Miami has designated a separate “Apartment Hotel” category for units operating in zones T4, T5, and CI-HD.
The City of Miami plans to establish unique Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt classifications for these properties.
Other Regulations
Responsible hosting also involves compliance with:
- Lease agreements
- HOA/community rules
- Tenant association policies
To learn more, visit Miami’s official website or consult with professional services, such as Airbnb Management Miami, to ensure compliance and optimization of your rental business.