Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Avon Park, FL?

Short-term rentals are permitted in Avon Park, Florida, subject to Highlands County land development regulations and zoning requirements. The city operates under county zoning codes, as Avon Park is an incorporated municipality within Highlands County. STRs fall under the general hospitality accommodation framework and must comply with the same development standards as hotels, motels, and multi-family dwelling units.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in This Market

1. Zoning Compliance Verification

Before establishing an STR, verify your property's zoning classification. Relevant zoning districts include:

• R-3 Multiple-Family Dwelling including Motel and Hotel District - Most likely to accommodate STRs
• B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4 Business Districts - May permit hospitality uses
• R-3 NC Non-Commercial Multiple-Family Dwelling - Limited commercial activity
• PD Planned Development District - Requires special approval

2. Development Order Process

1. Submit Development Application - Required for new STR establishments
2. Technical Review Meeting - May be required depending on scope
3. Planning Commission Review - For zoning changes or special permits
4. Board of County Commissioners Approval - Final authority for major changes

3. Site Plan Requirements

• Preliminary and final site plan submissions required
• Compliance with parking standards (Article 10)
• Adherence to landscaping requirements (Article 11)
• Stormwater management compliance (Article 12)

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Permits and Licenses

1. Building Permit - Required for any construction or renovation
2. Certificate of Occupancy - Must be obtained before operation
3. Development Order - Required for commercial STR operations
4. Fire Marshal Permit - Compliance with fire safety codes
5. Business Tax Receipt - Local business registration

Documentation Requirements

• Site plans meeting Article 4 standards
• Building plans and specifications
• Parking and circulation plans
• Landscaping plans per Article 11
• Stormwater management plans (if applicable)
• Environmental clearance reports (Article 12, Division 6)

Florida State Requirements

• Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation license
• Vacation rental license for properties with 6+ rental periods
• State sales tax registration
• Local tourist development tax registration

Specific Regulations: City, County, and State Level

Highlands County Regulations

Zoning Requirements:

• STRs must comply with the zoning district where located
• R-3 districts explicitly include "motel and hotel" uses
• Parking requirements: Generally 1 space per unit plus additional for management
• Maximum occupancy limits may apply based on building code

Development Standards:

• Setback requirements vary by zoning district
• Building height limitations apply
• Lot coverage restrictions
• Landscaping requirements for commercial properties

Operational Requirements:

• Compliance with Standard Housing Code (Article 19)
• Fire safety compliance (Article 17)
• Building code requirements (Article 16)
• Noise and nuisance regulations may apply

Florida State Regulations

• Chapter 509, Florida Statutes - Public Lodging Establishments
• Florida Administrative Code Rule 61C-1 - Licensing requirements
• Local tourist development taxes (typically 4-6%)
• Florida's STR transparency requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Highlands County Planning Department

Address: 505 Commerce Center Drive, Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6650
Website: www.hcbcc.net
Email: planning@hcbcc.net

Highlands County Building Department

Address: 505 Commerce Center Drive, Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6520
Website: www.hcbcc.net
Email: building@hcbcc.net

Highlands County Fire Marshal

Phone: (863) 402-7744
Email: fire.marshal@hcbcc.net

Avon Park City Hall (Municipal Coordination)

Address: 1350 N. Ridgewood Dr., Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 471-5100
Website: www.highlandsfl.gov

Links to Source Pages

• [Highlands County Land Development Regulations - Full PDF](cms2.revize.com/revize/highlandscountyfl/departments/development_services/planning/LDRS%20thru%20Ord%2021-22-28%20(6-21-22%20ADA.pdf)

Important Notes for STR Investors

1. Regulatory Landscape: Avon Park operates under county zoning regulations, requiring adherence to Highlands County development standards.

2. Permitting Timeline: Expect 30-90 days for complete permitting process depending on project scope.

3. Compliance Costs: Budget for site plan preparation, permit fees, and potential impact fees.

4. Ongoing Requirements: Annual business license renewals, property maintenance standards, and potential periodic inspections.

5. Market Considerations: Avon Park's tourism market is seasonal, with winter months typically seeing higher occupancy rates.

This guide provides a framework for establishing STR operations in Avon Park. Direct consultation with Highlands County planning officials is recommended for specific project guidance and current regulation updates.