Short-Term Rental Taxes and Rules for Vero Beach Owners

October 16, 2025

Thinking about turning your Vero Beach home into a short-term rental? The upside can be real, but the rules are not the same across the city and county, and taxes stack up fast if you miss a step. If you want steady bookings and zero headaches, you need a clear plan for licensing, zoning, and tax compliance. This guide breaks down Vero Beach’s city-versus-county rules, the taxes you must collect, and the practical steps to launch legally. Let’s dive in.

Vero Beach rules at a glance

City vs. county: know your jurisdiction

If your home sits inside the City of Vero Beach limits, start with zoning. The city has long-standing rules that restrict “transient” or guest-house uses in many residential zones, and the city has enforced those rules in court. Local reporting confirms the city’s position and enforcement history, so verify your parcel and permitted uses before you advertise a stay under 30 days. See the city’s enforcement background in this coverage of a key case: City wins short-term rental case.

If your property is in unincorporated Indian River County, the county allows vacation rentals subject to registration and operating conditions. County rules tend to focus on parking, occupancy, noise, events, and having a 24/7 local contact. Local reporting summarizes these requirements for county-run STRs: short-term rental attention notice.

State preemption in plain English

Florida law sets boundaries on how cities and counties can regulate vacation rentals and preserves older local rules that were already on the books. For background on this framework, review Florida Statute § 509.032.

DBPR licensing: do you need one?

Many short-term rentals meet the state definition of a “vacation rental” and need a license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) before advertising. DBPR sets classifications, applications, fees, and certain safety standards. Learn the basics and when a license applies here: DBPR vacation rental overview.

Taxes on short-term stays in Vero

Florida sales tax: 6 percent

Rentals of six months or less are generally subject to a 6 percent state sales tax on the total rental charge. The taxable base often includes cleaning fees and other required charges. See the state rule at Florida Statute § 212.03.

County surtax: check current tables

Some counties add a discretionary sales surtax on the same base. Check the current surtax tables and instructions through the Florida Department of Revenue’s local option resources: local option taxes overview.

Tourist Development Tax: now 5 percent

Indian River County levies a Tourist Development Tax, often called the bed tax. Local voters approved an increase from 4 percent to 5 percent in November 2024. Confirm the current effective rate with the county or DOR before you list. For local context, see this update: short-term rental attention notice.

Putting it together, most short-term rental bookings in Indian River County will include: 6 percent state tax + any county discretionary surtax + 5 percent TDT.

Who collects and files?

  • Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo often collect and remit some taxes, but coverage varies by platform and by county. You are still responsible for verifying what was collected and for registering if required. See a helpful summary of marketplace collection rules here: marketplace tax collection overview.
  • Filing is often monthly in Florida. Some jurisdictions require a return even with no rentals in a period. Check filing frequency and deadlines with the Florida DOR and the local tax collector. For a look at common filing practices, review this tourist tax guidance: tourist development tax filing basics.

Local registrations and operating rules

If you are in unincorporated Indian River County

Expect registration, proof of tax accounts, and operating standards. Typical requirements include a 24/7 local contact, posted rules inside the unit, occupancy and parking limits, no large events, and protections for coastal resources. Local reporting summarizes the county’s approach for STRs: short-term rental attention notice.

If you are inside the City of Vero Beach

Verify your zoning and the city code’s permitted uses before you list. The city’s long-standing rules restrict transient use in many residential districts, and the city has enforced those rules. Read a summary of the city’s enforcement history here: City wins short-term rental case.

Enforcement and penalties

Local governments can impose fines for violations and may suspend registrations for repeat issues like noise, trash, and parking. Recent coverage highlights the trend toward stronger enforcement: stiffer penalties possible on vacation rentals.

Protect your homestead and coverage

Homestead exemption risk

Renting all or substantially all of a homesteaded property for more than 30 days per year for two consecutive years can jeopardize your homestead exemption. Check your plans with the county property appraiser before you list. See the FAQ here: Indian River County Property Appraiser FAQ.

Insurance and safety

Standard homeowners policies often exclude short-term rental activity. Many owners obtain STR-specific coverage and follow DBPR safety rules like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Review licensing and safety basics: DBPR vacation rental overview.

Step-by-step checklist before you list

  • Confirm your property’s jurisdiction and zoning. City and county rules differ. If you are inside the City of Vero Beach, confirm permitted uses for your zoning district before advertising short stays.
  • Determine if you need a DBPR vacation rental license and apply if required.
  • Register with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax if you will collect and remit directly.
  • Register for Indian River County’s Tourist Development Tax and any required local business tax receipt or county STR registration.
  • Set a 24/7 local contact, post house rules in the property, and plan for parking, trash, and quiet hours.
  • Choose STR-specific insurance and document safety equipment.
  • Confirm what your booking platform collects, keep platform tax receipts, and file your own returns for any taxes not collected on your behalf.

Work with a local advisor

If you want your rental income without the surprises, align your plan with local rules from day one. Our team can help you assess zoning, estimate gross-to-net after taxes, and position your property for the right guest profile and seasonality. For a private consultation, connect with Vero Premier Properties.

FAQs

Can you list a Vero Beach home on Airbnb or Vrbo?

  • It depends on location and zoning; the City of Vero Beach restricts transient rentals in many residential zones, while unincorporated Indian River County allows regulated STRs with registration and operating rules (city case summary).

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Indian River County?

Do platforms collect and remit taxes for you?

  • Sometimes; coverage varies by platform and county, so you must verify what was collected, keep documentation, and register and file for any remaining obligations (marketplace overview).

Do you need a DBPR license for a vacation rental?

  • Many short-term rentals require a DBPR license before advertising; confirm your property’s classification and apply if needed (DBPR basics).

Could renting affect your Florida homestead exemption?

  • Yes; renting all or substantially all of a homestead for more than 30 days per year for two straight years can jeopardize the exemption, so confirm with the property appraiser first (homestead FAQ).

What issues most often trigger complaints and fines locally?

  • Noise, parking overflow, trash, unauthorized events, and slow response to complaints are common triggers; stronger penalties for repeat violations are possible (enforcement trend).
Ben Bryk

About the Author - Ben Bryk

Lead Real Estate Agent

Buying a home is a very emotional experience, especially for those who have not done it very often. My experience in sales can help guide buyers with an analytical approach.

I am a top Vero Beach real estate agent, specializing in neighborhoods like Grand HarborVero Lake EstatesCitrus SpringsFort PierceNorth Hutchinson IslandJohn’s Island, and the surrounding areas.

Work With Us

Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact us today.