Indian Rocks Beach, Florida

Short-term rentals are permitted in Indian Rocks Beach, but the city enforces its rules strictly. Ordinance 2023-02 took effect August 1, 2023, and Florida law preempts outright bans on STRs. Non-owner-occupied rentals need a city Vacation Rental Registration and a Local Business Tax Receipt, plus a Florida DBPR transient lodging license and Florida Department of Revenue sales tax registration. Registration renews annually and the permit cost is about $475. Initial and annual safety inspections are required. Owner-occupied properties and properties with a Florida homestead exemption can be exempt by filing an affidavit, which the city verifies against Pinellas County records. Neither owner occupancy nor primary residence is required to operate. Occupancy is capped at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2, with a maximum of 12 guests, stepping down to 10 as the two-year phase-in completes. One off-street parking space per bedroom is required. Noise limits are 60 dB from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 55 dB from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. Guests pay a 6% Pinellas County tourist development tax, 6% Florida sales tax and a 1% county surtax, about 13% in total. Enforcement escalated in 2026 under the new city manager. The city holds two special magistrate hearings per month and seeks the maximum $5,000 fine per violation. About $176,000 in registration fees and $70,000 in fines were collected in fiscal 2026 through April, and fee increases are under consideration. Verify current rules with the city before buying.