New Panama City Beach Ordinance: What Short-Term Rental Owners Need to Know

Attention vacation rental owners and property managers in Panama City Beach! Important changes are coming to the short-term rental landscape. On September 28, 2023, the Panama City Beach City Council passed Ordinance 1632, introducing new registration, reporting, and inspection requirements for vacation rentals operating within the city limits.
Key Points of Ordinance 1632
1. Effective Date: The ordinance goes into effect on February 1, 2024.
2. Pre-registration: Life safety inspections pre-registration opens on November 1, 2023.
3. Occupancy Limits: The ordinance allows for occupancy of one person per 150 sq. ft. of habitable space.
– Balconies, porches, patios, and garages are not counted as habitable space.
– Calculation is based on square footage, not the number of bedrooms.
– The higher occupancy rate (compared to the current state statute of one person per 200 sq. ft. for condos) is only granted after passing a life safety inspection.
What This Means for Rental Owners
1. Registration Required: All short-term rental properties must be registered with the city.
2. Inspections: Properties must pass a life safety inspection to qualify for the new occupancy limits.
3. Compliance Deadline: Ensure your property meets all requirements before February 1, 2024.
Steps to Take
1. Pre-register for Inspection: Mark your calendar for November 1 to pre-register for the life safety inspection.
2. Review Property: Assess your rental property to ensure it meets all safety standards.
3. Calculate Occupancy: Determine your property’s new potential occupancy based on habitable square footage.
4. Update Listings: Once approved, update your rental listings with the new occupancy limits.
Gulf Glo Signs & Lighting: Your Compliance Partner
As you navigate these new regulations, Gulf Glo Signs & Lighting is here to help. We offer:
– Vacation Rental Certification signs
– Custom property signage to display rules and emergency information
– Durable, weather-resistant materials perfect for beach properties
To order your Vacation Rental Certification or discuss custom signage needs, contact us:
– Email: [email protected]
– Phone: 850-234-0952
Stay Informed
For more detailed information about Panama City Beach Ordinance 1632, visit the official city website: https://www.pcbfl.gov/departments/fire-department/short-term-rentals
Don’t let these new regulations catch you off guard. Stay compliant and keep your vacation rental business thriving with help from Gulf Glo Signs & Lighting!