Florida’s proposed vacation rental bill, SB 280, is causing significant concern across the state, especially among vacation rental owners and advocates. Gia Arvin, President of Florida Realtors®, highlighted several important issues with this bill that could harm Florida’s tourism industry.
Irvin highlighted a concerning provision in the bill, noting that it allows local governments to impose unspecified fees on property owners for processing registration applications. “We may charge property owners a reasonable fee to process registration applications, but there is no clear limit on that fee,” Irvin explained. This lack of rate regulation has raised concerns about the potential financial strain it could place on property owners and, in turn, vacation rental rates.
Additionally, the proposed bill would allow local governments to suspend a property owner’s registration for what it terms a “serious violation” of local law, but would not define what constitutes such a violation. does not provide a precise definition of what it is. This ambiguity creates uncertainty and challenges in enforcement and leaves property owners vulnerable to arbitrary or unwarranted suspensions.
Irvin also warned about the lengthy and resource-intensive appeals process required by the bill. “If they are, [homeowners] If you are suspended, you must appeal the registration denial through circuit court,” she said. This bureaucratic hurdle adds unnecessary complexity and burdens to property owners, which can prevent them from entering or continuing in the vacation rental market.
The impact of SB 280 extends beyond the vacation rental sector to Florida’s broader tourism industry. Irvin stressed that restrictions on vacation rentals could have a knock-on effect on jobs, income and businesses that rely on tourism, such as hotels and restaurants. As Irvin points out, this bill could disrupt vacation plans and poses additional risks to consumer confidence and satisfaction.
Irvin and others who oppose SB 280 are not only voicing their concerns, but also active in advocacy. They are organizing town halls, calling for action and urging Gov. Ron DeSantis to veto the bill. They emphasize the need for a balanced approach that protects private property rights while supporting the economic vitality of Florida’s tourism industry, and they are actively working toward this goal. “This is very one-sided against private property rights and homeowners,” Irvin said. “So I think there was discussion, but unfortunately the needle wasn’t moved enough.” Ta.
SB 280 poses significant challenges and uncertainties to Florida’s vacation rental sector and broader tourism economy. Florida Realtors® and their supporters are working tirelessly to ensure that this version of the bill is vetoed and amended to address these concerns in a fair and equitable manner. Gia Arvin, President of Florida Realtors®, puts it simply: “Once we restrict vacation rentals, what happens next?”
