Anna Maria Island Short-Term Rental Basics

Short-term rentals are a big part of island life, but the rules are local and they change. Here's the lay of the land. This is general information, not legal advice — always confirm current requirements with the city and a professional before you buy or list.

Each town sets its own rules

The island's three towns — Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach — each regulate vacation rentals independently. Expect differences in registration or vacation-rental certificates, minimum-stay requirements, and how often a property may turn over. Occupancy limits are often tied to the number of bedrooms and septic capacity.

State licensing

Florida regulates vacation rentals at the state level through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). A property rented to guests on a short-term basis generally needs a state vacation rental license in addition to any local registration.

Taxes to collect and remit

• Florida sales tax on short-term stays.
• Manatee County Tourist Development Tax (the "bed tax") on stays of six months or less.

Most owners have their management company collect and remit these, but the responsibility ultimately sits with the owner.

Good-neighbor ordinances

Noise, parking, and trash ordinances apply, and the towns enforce them. Well-run rentals respect occupancy and parking limits — it keeps the island livable and your permit in good standing.

Want help matching a property to the rental strategy you have in mind? Let's talk.