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NewsYourobserverJune 24, 2026Manatee

Manatee County Commissioners Move to Regulate Short-Term Rentals

Manatee County commissioners have directed staff to draft an ordinance to regulate short-term vacation rentals following ongoing resident complaints about noise, trash, and neighborhood disruption. The move follows a unanimous vote on June 16, 2026, marking a shift from previous failed attempts to pass similar restrictions.

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Why It Matters

The proposed could establish a mandatory registry and new restrictions for short-term rental properties in , directly impacting property owners' ability to operate rentals and neighbors' ability to address noise and waste issues.

Key Facts

  • On June 16, 2026, Manatee County commissioners voted unanimously to direct staff to draft an ordinance regulating short-term rentals.
  • The ordinance will focus on unincorporated areas of Manatee County.
  • Previous attempts to draft an ordinance failed in May 2025 in a 3-3 tie vote.
  • Current complaints from residents include noise disturbances, excessive trash, and improper storage of garbage bins.
  • Manatee County code currently restricts garbage bins from being placed on the curb more than 24 hours before pickup.
  • Some residents report that current enforcement tools, such as written warnings for noise, are ineffective because they are issued to transient guests rather than property owners.
  • Commissioner Bob McCann is leading the current effort to draft the ordinance with input from the County Attorney and Sheriff's Office.
  • Commissioner Jason Bearden previously opposed the ordinance, citing concerns about government expansion and costs.

Who's Mentioned

organizationManatee County Board of County Commissioners“The governing body considering the new rental regulations.”personBob McCann“Commissioner who reintroduced the plan to regulate rentals.”personJohn McNaught“A local vacation rental owner who advocates for targeting bad behavior rather th”personJason Bearden“Commissioner who previously opposed the ordinance due to concerns over bureaucra”locationPlantation Oaks“A neighborhood experiencing issues with a large short-term rental property.”personTal Siddique“Commission Chair who initiated the push for rental regulations.”