#TeamFTL Shares with and Learns from Other Cities and Towns
The City of Fort Lauderdale has a robust program to ensure vacation rental owners are properly registered and in full compliance – not to mention being good neighbors in our communities. As a leading example in south Florida and other coastal communities, the Community Enhancement and Compliance Division recently welcomed approximately 100 code specialists from across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties to dive into the details of the program and to hear about the opportunities and challenges other area cities and towns are experiencing.
The City currently monitors more than 1,660 vacation rental properties. The team of administrators and code compliance officers work with each property owner so they are aware of and in compliance with registration and inspection standards and understand enforcement policies.
Registration Process
Property owners looking to register a vacation rental must submit an application that meets not only the requirements of the City, but also those of Broward County and the State of Florida. This process includes obtaining documents such as state and county licenses, proof of property ownership, a copy of the lease agreement provided to potential guests, and more. Check out this useful eight-step checklist for full details. Registration must be renewed annually, which includes an inspection by a code officer.
Inspection Standards
The City inspects both the interior and exterior of every potential vacation rental. This includes ensuring the properties are fully up to code, properly maintained, safe, and secure. In addition to properties meeting high standards inside and out, guests must have access to a folder that includes trash and recycling information, the location of the nearest hospital, parking regulations, and more. Here’s the vacation rental inspection checklist.
Compliance and Enforcement
The City actively investigates compliance issues, whether a complaint is received or discovered by staff. If a violation is confirmed, a citation is issued, and a reasonable timeframe is given to properly address the issue or cease operations. If the property owner appeals and loses the case, fails to come into compliance, or ignores the citation, fines are imposed and continue to accrue until the situation is resolved. If all fines are not paid within 30 days, a lien will be placed on the property.
Concerns and Complaints
Those living in Fort Lauderdale can lodge a vacation rental complaint several ways:
- For issues during weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., call (954) 828-5207.
- For issues after hours or during weekends, call (954) 828-8000.
- For emergencies, call 911. Be sure to request a police report from the responding officer.
- Contact the hosting website, especially regarding parties and other disturbances. The most popular hosting sites are Airbnb and VRBO.
For more information, visit fortlauderdale.gov/vacationrental.
Original source can be found here.
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