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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BaySeptember 2, 2026Hillsborough

Manatee County commissioners order draft ordinance to regulate short-term vacation rentals

Manatee County commissioners have directed staff to draft a new ordinance regulating short-term vacation rentals to address neighborhood noise and occupancy concerns. The proposed rules will focus on safety, parking, trash, and noise, with a draft expected to be presented to the board within 30 to 45 days.

vacation rentalszoningnoise controlhousingcode enforcement
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Why It Matters

Residents and property owners in Manatee County are awaiting new regulations that will define how short-term rentals operate, impacting approximately 3,000 properties and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Key Facts

  • Commissioners ordered staff to draft a new ordinance for short-term rentals within 30 to 45 days.
  • The county is currently managing approximately 3,000 short-term rental properties.
  • State law prohibits the county from banning rentals, capping total numbers, or limiting rental frequency.
  • The county is restricted to regulating safety, occupancy, parking, noise, and trash.
  • Five code enforcement positions are currently frozen, complicating immediate enforcement efforts.
  • Commissioners directed code enforcement to prioritize immediate noise complaints, including loud parties and outdoor sports courts.
  • No final vote or decision was taken during the Wednesday work session.
  • Future public hearings will be scheduled after the draft ordinance is prepared.

Who's Mentioned

locationManatee County“The jurisdiction overseeing the rental regulations.”personGeorge Kruse“Manatee County Commissioner.”personRichard Hicks“Local resident providing testimony.”personJohn McNaught“Property owner providing testimony.”other20“Number of guests hosted at specific problematic properties.”