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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — PoliticsSeptember 2, 2026Hillsborough

Manatee County drafts new short-term rental regulations and staffing plan

Manatee County commissioners have directed staff to draft a new ordinance regulating short-term vacation rentals to address neighborhood noise and occupancy complaints. The proposed program, which could cost $1.5 million to implement, aims to manage approximately 3,000 rental properties while navigating state-level restrictions on local rental bans.

short-term rentalshousingcode enforcementnoise controllocal government
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — Politics

Why It Matters

Residents and property owners in Manatee County face potential new local regulations on noise, parking, and trash management for short-term rentals, with the county currently evaluating a $1.5 million staffing plan to enforce these rules.

Key Facts

  • Manatee County commissioners directed staff to draft a new short-term rental ordinance within 30 to 45 days.
  • The proposed regulatory program is projected to cost $1.5 million.
  • The program would oversee approximately 3,000 short-term rental properties.
  • Five code enforcement positions are currently frozen, complicating the enforcement plan.
  • Florida state law prohibits local governments from banning short-term rentals, capping their total numbers, or limiting rental frequency.
  • Local regulations are restricted to safety inspections, occupancy, parking, noise, and trash management.
  • Commissioners requested that code enforcement address immediate noise complaints while the ordinance is being drafted.
  • No final vote or decision was taken during the Wednesday work session.

Who's Mentioned

locationManatee County“The jurisdiction where the rental regulations are being proposed.”personGeorge Kruse“Manatee County Commissioner advocating for a balance between rental owners and r”organizationPine Meadow HOA“Homeowners association reporting issues with high-occupancy rentals.”personRichard Hicks“Resident who provided testimony regarding noise issues.”personJohn McNaught“Property owner who spoke against new bureaucracy.”other3,000“Estimated number of short-term rentals in the county.”