Detailed Guide to Short-Term Rental Regulations in Coral Gables
Coral Gables, Florida, known for its beautiful Mediterranean Revival architecture and lush landscapes, has strict regulations governing short-term rentals to maintain the residential character and ensure community well-being. Here’s an updated and comprehensive guide to Short-Term Rental Regulations in Coral Gables.
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Understanding Short-Term Rentals in Coral Gables
Definition
In Coral Gables, a short-term rental is defined as any residential property leased for a period of less than six months. This includes various types of accommodations such as single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. The rise of platforms like Airbnb has increased the popularity of such rentals, necessitating clear regulations to preserve the city’s residential character.
Purpose of Regulations
The primary goals of these regulations are to:
- Preserve Neighborhood Integrity: Ensuring that short-term rentals do not disrupt the tranquility and aesthetic of residential areas.
- Ensure Safety and Compliance: Making certain that rental properties meet safety standards and comply with local laws.
- Protect Housing Supply: Preventing the conversion of long-term rental units into short-term rentals, which can affect housing availability and affordability.
Short-Term Rental Licensing and Registration in Coral Gables
Licensing Requirements
In Coral Gables, operating a short-term rental legally requires obtaining several key licenses and permits. These include:
- Certificate of Use (CU): Before listing and advertising a property as a short-term rental, property owners must obtain a Certificate of Use (CU) from Miami-Dade County. This involves paying a fee and scheduling a property inspection. The CU must be renewed annually to remain valid.
- State of Florida Public Lodging Establishment License: Issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), this license is essential for short-term rentals. Property owners must submit an application detailing the property and pay the associated fees. This license is necessary if a property is rented out more than three times in a calendar year for less than 30 days each time.
- Tourist Tax Account: Property owners renting out accommodations for six months or less must register for a Tourist Tax Account with the Florida Department of Revenue. This account is used to collect and remit monthly Convention and Tourist Development taxes.
- Business License: All short-term rental operators in Coral Gables are required to obtain a business license from the city. This ensures that the business is recognized and regulated by local authorities.
Explore Starting a Business in Coral Gables.
Coral Gables Zoning and Usage Restrictions
Zoning Code Compliance
Coral Gables has specific zoning laws that regulate where short-term rentals can operate:
- Residential Zones: Short-term rentals are generally prohibited in single-family residential districts to maintain the residential character and prevent disruptions.
- Mixed-Use Zones: Rentals may be allowed in mixed-use areas where residential and commercial activities coexist, but additional restrictions may apply.
- Historic Districts: Properties located in historic districts are subject to stricter regulations to preserve the historical and cultural significance of these areas.
Enforcement and Compliance
Compliance with these zoning laws is crucial. Violations can result in significant penalties, including fines and the revocation of rental licenses. Regular inspections and reporting are part of the enforcement process to ensure adherence to zoning laws.
Coral Gables Health and Safety Standards
Essential Requirements
To ensure the safety and well-being of guests, short-term rentals must adhere to stringent health and safety standards:
- Fire Safety: Properties must be equipped with working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked emergency exits.
- Sanitation: Rentals must be kept clean, with regular garbage disposal and pest control measures in place.
- Building Codes: All properties must comply with local building codes, ensuring structural integrity and the proper functioning of electrical and plumbing systems.
Regular Inspections
The city conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with these standards. Property owners must address any violations promptly to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of their guests.
Occupancy and Noise Regulations in Coral Gables
Occupancy Limits
To prevent overcrowding and maintain residential peace, Coral Gables imposes occupancy limits based on property size. For instance, a two-bedroom apartment may have a maximum occupancy of four to six guests. These limits are strictly enforced to ensure that short-term rentals do not disrupt the community.
Noise Ordinances
Noise regulations are in place to maintain the tranquility of residential neighborhoods. Quiet hours are typically enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM. Property owners are responsible for ensuring their guests adhere to these noise ordinances to avoid disturbances and potential fines.
Taxation and Fees in Coral Gables
Tax Overview
Short-term rentals in Coral Gables are subject to several taxes, which property owners must collect and remit:
- Florida Transient Rental Tax: 6% of the listing price, including any cleaning fees, for reservations of 182 nights or shorter.
- Florida Discretionary Sales Surtax: 1.5% in Miami-Dade County.
- Tourist Development Room Tax: 2% of the listing price, including any cleaning fees, for reservations of 182 nights or shorter. This tax does not apply to reservations in Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, and Surfside.
- Professional Sports Franchise Facility Tax: 1% of the listing price, including any cleaning fees, for reservations of 182 nights or shorter. This tax does not apply to reservations in Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, and Surfside.
- Convention Development Tax: 3% of the listing price, including any cleaning fees, for reservations of 182 nights or shorter. This tax does not apply to reservations in Bal Harbour and Surfside.
Example Calculation
For a property rented at $100 per night:
- Florida Transient Rental Tax: $6
- Florida Discretionary Sales Surtax: $1.50
- Tourist Development Room Tax: $2
- Professional Sports Franchise Facility Tax: $1
- Convention Development Tax: $3
Total Tax: $13.50
Enforcement and Compliance
Property owners must ensure they are registered with the Florida Department of Revenue for the collection and remittance of these taxes. Monthly returns must be filed, and taxes remitted to the appropriate state and county authorities.
For more detailed information, visit the Florida Department of Revenue and the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s website.
Short-Term Rental Enforcement and Penalties in Coral Gables
Code Enforcement Procedures
When a short-term rental complaint is received, the Code Enforcement Division follows these steps:
- Property Inspection: A Code Enforcement Officer visits the property to verify if it is being used as a short-term rental.
- Citation Issuance:
- Initial Violation: A fine of $150 per day is imposed for the first violation.
- Repeat Violations: Subsequent violations involving new tenants incur a $500 daily fine.
- Compliance Actions: Property owners must remove the listing from rental platforms, cease short-term accommodations, and provide a compliant lease or register the property as vacant.
Police Department Role
The Police Department handles complaints reported directly to them, particularly those received after hours or on weekends. Their responsibilities include:
- Verification: Confirming the property is used as a short-term rental.
- Citation Issuance: Issuing citations and transferring documentation to the Code Enforcement Division for follow-up.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with these regulations can result in significant fines, license revocation, and potential legal actions. Continuous violations may lead to ongoing fines until compliance is achieved.
AO-2021-05 Short Term Rental Citation and Enforcement Procedures
Best Practices for Short-Term Rental Property Owners in Coral Gables
Stay Informed
Property owners must stay up-to-date with any changes in regulations to ensure compliance. Regularly checking the city’s official website and subscribing to local news sources can help.
Maintain Open Communication with Neighbors
Establishing friendly and cooperative relationships with neighbors can help prevent and resolve potential issues. Informing neighbors about the short-term rental and providing contact information for emergencies can foster goodwill and address concerns proactively.
Screen Guests Carefully
Carefully screening guests can prevent potential problems. Using reputable booking platforms that offer guest reviews and background checks can help ensure that guests are respectful and reliable.
Provide Clear House Rules
Clear house rules should be provided to guests, outlining expectations for behavior, noise levels, and property use. This can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Invest in Property Maintenance
Regular property maintenance is crucial for meeting health and safety standards. Routine inspections and prompt repairs can help avoid violations and ensure a pleasant experience for guests.
Conclusion
Adhering to Short-Term Rental Regulations in Coral Gables is essential for maintaining the city’s unique character and ensuring a positive community experience. By understanding and complying with these regulations, property owners can successfully operate their rentals while preserving the charm and tranquility of Coral Gables.
