I am currently in Mary Esther, FL. I am going against the City since they have found me in violation of renting for 30+ days (after they told me I couldn't do less than 30 days.) They actually made an error initially and issued a license to me. I called and inquired BEFORE I even purchased the house and put 40K in renovations!!! Now they are telling me I have to rent long term and even put the utilities in the tenant's name. There is NOTHING in the LDC showing the duration. Their LDC doesn't mention anything about No short term rentals in the R-1 District. It only shows no "commercial activity". There is a recent case where the 1st DCA appeals court ruled that "A residential property in a residential neighborhood is not considered commercial/business no matter what the duration. Bay County (Panama City) now has short term rentals.
The case is under Santa Monica HOA v. Acord
You might want to look that one up. I think we have a great case. We are trying to get a violation now so we can go before the magistrate to see if they can make a ruling against the City before we go to court.
Also, my fingers are crossed that Florida House will attempt to pass another bill regarding STR and move everything to the State to stop all these little cities from enforcing non-existing rules!!!
I didn't see your ad to sign the petition or I surely would have done so.
My phone number is ** if you would like to call me.
Elaine
**[Phone number hidden due to safety reasons - Community Center Guidelines]