TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis has vetoed a controversial measure that would’ve empowered the state to assume regulatory oversight on short-term rental properties in Florida.

What You Need To Know

  • Gov. DeSantis vetoed a controversial short term rental bill
  • The bill would have given the state more power to regulate vacation rentals like Airbnb

  • It also would have implemented statewide regulations

  • Gov. DeSantis took issue with the bill's "one-size-fits-all approach"

Under the proposal (Senate Bill 280), the state would have erased local regulations approved after 2016, limited city and county control, and implemented Florida’s very own statewide rule set on vacation rental properties, like Airbnb and Vrbo.

“Vacation rentals should not be approached as a one-sit-fits-all issue,” DeSantis wrote in the veto letter.

The sweeping proposal contained several provisions, including occupancy limits and a mandatory 24/7 phone line. Under the vetoed measure, the maximum overnight occupancy would have been capped at two people per bedroom and two people in the common area.

The veto is considered a victory for cities and counties, which have largely opposed the bill and are now asking the state to provide them with more control to address concerns.

“The lack of zoning controls for vacation rentals has allowed our neighborhoods to be overrun with party houses, impacting long-term residents in cities across Florida,” said Florida League of Cities Communications Director Kelli Gemmer.

The bill’s proponents argued vacation rental properties are under-regulated in Florida and, in some cases, over-regulated based on the city or county, leaving the state with an inconsistent array of rental regulations. 

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, meanwhile, argued the legislation would establish fairness between hotels and short-term rentals.

“We are disappointed with Governor DeSantis’ veto but will continue with our efforts to work toward a resolution and ensure equity across Florida’s lodging industry — from vacation rentals to hotels — to best serve our guests and promote their safety,” said FRLA CEO Carol Dover.