Any unit, group of units, dwelling, building, or group of buildings within a single complex of buildings, which is rented more than three times a calendar year for periods of less than 30 days or one calendar month, or which is advertised or held out to the public as a place regularly rented to guests. 

Certain Condominiums as defined in Chapter 509 & 718, Florida Statute.

Single Family dwelling occupied on a full-time basis by the owner as an on-premises, permanent resident and that has been declared and continues to be declared as homestead by the Walton County Property Appraiser. 

Cooperatives and Homeowner’s Associations as defined in Chapters 719-720, Florida Statute.

Multi-family residential developments under common management. 

Properties that have more than one dwelling under common ownership where one of the dwellings (a) is occupied on a full-time basis by the owner of the dwellings as an on-premises, permanent resident and (b) has been declared and continues to be declared as homestead by the Walton County Property Appraiser. 

1. Apply for all State and County Licenses

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation

Florida Department of Revenue 

Walton County Tourism Development

2. Complete and Submit Short Term Vacation Rental Certificate Application from Walton County Planning and Development Services, for Individuals and Communities 

3. Pay the Application Fee 

No, a signed affidavit is required as part of the Walton County Short-Term Vacation Rental Application which affirms that the owner or managing entity of the property has complied with all requirements of Walton County Florida Code 1.13.16. However, inspections may arise from a notification from the Florida State Department of Business and Professional Revenue or based on complaints based on life safety code violations reported to Walton County Fire or Sheriff Departments. 

The responsible party shall respond to all inspections as described in Walton County Ordinance 2023-03 as well as non-routine complaints and other immediate problems related to property rental.  It is about resolving any issues that arise at the lowest level and in the quickest way possible while continuing to maintain the beauty and desirability of our community. 

• Any person eighteen years of age or older may be designated by the property owner.
• Available by landline or mobile phone at the listed contact number(s) twenty-four hours a day seven days a week.
• Capable of handling any issue arising from the short-term vacation rental use.
• Willing and able to respond to the rental address within one hour following notification from the occupant, the owner, or the County to address issues. 
• Monitor the short-term vacation rental unit at least once weekly to assure continued compliance with the requirements of this section, including parking and trash.