In the Town of Surfside, a short term rental (STR) means any occupancy of a single-family, two-family, multi-family, or townhouse dwelling unit for a period of one day to no more than six months. However, the terms of this Short Term Rental Ordinance do not apply to film and print productions. Nor does the use of the premises for those purposes. The following is a complete guideline for Surfside’s short term rental regulations so that anyone can be a responsible host when using platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and other similar services. This rundown should give you a good start in understanding your local laws.
Short Term Rental Registration
Homeowners must register with the Town if they wish to operate a short term rental. It is illegal to allow guests to occupy a residence or provide rental services within the Town unless homeowners have been registered with the Town. Within 12 months, no more than three registrations may be issued. Every individual obliged to obtain a registration under this Section must submit a formal application to the Town Manager/Designee.
Short Term Rental Registration Application
Applications for registration must include the following information:
- The address, block, and subdivision name of the single-family, two-family, multi-family, and townhouse dwelling unit offered for rental.
- Owner’s name, address, and phone number for said single-family, two-family, multi-family, or townhouse dwelling unit.
- The responsible party’s name, address, and emergency contact phone number, which guests can reach at all times.
- Ownership proof for a single-family, two-family, multi-family, or townhouse dwelling unit.
The Town Manager/Designee shall issue a registration form to the applicant only if they meet the following conditions:
- The homeowner or responsible party has completed the Town of Surfside registration form.
- The homeowner or responsible party has paid the registration fee to the Town.
The Town Manager/Designee will not process any incomplete registration applications and will deny the desired registration.
STR Operator’s Requirements
- According to the Town of Surfside Code of Ordinances, all vehicles must be parked in the driveway of the residential unit. Moreover, the parking area must be clear of any grassy areas and sidewalk sections.
- It is unlawful to allow or make any noise or sound that exceeds the limits stated in the Town’s Noise Ordinance.
- Whoever enters or remains in any structure or conveyance of a dwelling unit without being authorized, licensed, or invited commits the offense of trespass in a structure on conveyance.
Short Term Rental Registration Details
- Transferability of Registration: Your registration is not transferable. Hence, no registered person may transfer their registration or let anyone else use it.
- Expiration of Registration: All registrations issued are valid for the rental period specified in the application.
Registration Fee
To cover administrative costs, the Town has the authority to levy a fee for registration. Therefore, the Town of Surfside’s commission has outlined the registration fees in a resolution made by them. The Town may also amend registration fees from time to time.
Resort Tax & Enforcement
The Town of Surfside imposes Resort Taxes on all short term rentals. All property owners are subject to payment of Resort Taxes as established by the laws of the Town.
Violations of this Section will result in fines as specified in the fine schedule imposed by the resolution.
Other Regulations
As a responsible host, you must comprehend and abide by other vacation rental rules and regulations that bind you. These include leases, community rules, HOA rules, or other guidelines set up by tenant associations. Feel free to reach out to your landlord, housing authority, or community council to find out more. To get more information about other short term rental regulations, you can also visit Surfside’s official website or contact us.