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Short Term Vacation Rentals

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1. What is a short term vacation rental?

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. 

2. What buildings are exempted? 

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. 

3. How do I apply for a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate? 

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 

4. Does my property be inspected prior to issuance of the certificate? 

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. 

5. Why do I need to have a local responsible party assigned to my rental(s)?

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. 

6. What are the specific duties and qualifications of the Short-Term Vacation Rental Responsible Party? 

• 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. 

7. What if I need to change my designated Short Term Vacation Rental Responsible Party? 

• Not a problem, the property owner can notify the Walton County Planning Department via writing or via the form located on EnerGov (Coming in May).
• There shall be only one short term vacation rental responsible party for each property at any given time.
• If the Responsible Party is an individual, they are required to arrange for an alternate during times of unavailability.

8. What does my short-term vacation renter lease/agreement have to say? 

At a minimum the following are required for inclusion within any lease/agreement for a short-term vacation rental:

• Maximum occupancy as certified.
  • One person per 150 square feet of heated/cooled living area OR lower agreed upon maximum occupancy.
• Notice regarding Walton County’s Noise Ordinance (Article 5).
  • Civil Infraction fines up to $500.00 and or potential criminal offense violation between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.
• Trash and Recycling pickup days.
  • Including instructions requiring all trash to be kept in provided containers.
• Notice that all transient occupants must evacuate from short term vacation rental upon posting of any evacuation order issued by local, state, or federal authorities.
• Maximum on-site vehicle parking allowed with a sketch of the usable off-street parking spaces and areas where parking is prohibited.

9. Do I have to post anything at the short-term vacation rental, and where do I need to place it? ?

Per Walton County Ordinance 2023-03 you are required to post the following information at the short-term vacation rental location: 

• Building sign for any registered single family attached or single family detached SVR unit meeting the following requirements - 

a. The sign must be prominently placed on the wall or property of the short-term vacation rental unit so that the required content of the sign shall be legible as viewed from the public right-of-way; however, signage shall not be placed in the public right-of-way. 

b. Such signs shall not be larger than eighteen (18) by twelve (12) inches.

c. The sign must indicate the name, and twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days a week emergency contact phone number or the locally available responsible party or the County’s short term vacation rental hotline number if available clearly identified as such and easily distinguishable from any rental related phone number if different.

d. The sign must indicate the units Short Term Vacation Rental Certificate Number.

• Informational Posting, on the back of or next to the main entrance door or on the refrigerator - 

 a. The address of the short-term vacation rental unit in case of emergency.

b. The name and phone number of the short-term vacation rental locally available responsible party. 

c. The maximum occupancy of the unit defined as one person per 150 square feet of heated or cooled areas of the house OR lower agreed upon maximum occupancy established during the certificate process:

“Maximum Occupancy is (X) by order of the State Fire Marshal.  In accordance with Florida Administrative Code 69A-43.018 the maximum occupancy load permitted for one and two family dwellings licensed as public lodging establishments shall be computed at 150 square feet gross floor area per person.”

d. The maximum on- site parking available (maximum number of vehicles allowed) for the unit along with a sketch of the location of the usable off-street parking spaces and notice regarding areas where parking is prohibited.

e. Notice regarding the County’s Noise Ordinance (Article 5 – Noise, Walton County Code of Ordinances) and potential civil infraction fines up to $500.00 and/or potential criminal offense violation between the hours of 10:00 p.m and 6:00 a.m. 

f. The days of trash pickup and recycling along with instructions requiring all trash to be kept in provided containers. 

g. If the short-term vacation rental unit is located within the Walton County Wildlife Protection Zone, notice of sea turtle nesting season restrictions and sea turtle lighting usage.

h. The location of the nearest hospital with an emergency room and including a statement to call 911 in case of emergency

i. Information describing beach safety specifically the flag notification system and penalties for violation

j. Information related to turtle nesting area restrictions (if applicable) 

k. Hurricane Evacuation Routes and notice that all occupants must leave when directed by state, county, or local authorities

l. Flood Zone information related to the Short-Term Rental Unit

10. Can my short-term vacation rental sign be larger than 18 inches by 12 inches?

No, because of necessity for first responders to be able to quickly identify the short-term vacation rental in the event of an emergency. 

11. What is the occupancy limit for a rental house?

The maximum occupancy of the unit defined as one person per 150 square feet of heated or cooled areas of the house OR lower agreed upon maximum occupancy established during the certificate process. The Walton County Planning Department will be glad to work with you during the certificate application process to address your questions and concerns. 

12. How many parking spaces are allowed per rental?

The maximum on- site parking available (maximum number of vehicles allowed) for the unit is one (1) vehicle per six (6) renters. Also, the maximum occupancy and total space available in either the front or rear of the structure must be considered.  The Walton County Planning Department will be glad to assist you during the application process to address your concerns.  

13. How do we obtain a TDT Registration Number?

This can be obtained from the Walton County Clerk of Courts

https://waltonclerk.com/touristtax

14. As the property owner, I am available to address any issues do I still need a local responsible party?

If you cannot respond and reach the rental property within one hour to address any issues that may arise, then yes you are required to designate a local responsible party. 

15. What if my short-term vacation rental is three (3) or more stories high, is anything required?

On the third floor above ground level and each higher floors, next to the interior door of each bedroom, a legible copy of the building evacuation map must be posted — Minimum 8½" by 11" in size. 

16. How many trash cans are required per short-term vacation rental?

The number of trash cans required is based on a ratio 35 gallons of capacity per four (4) occupants. The total size of containers is not dictated by the ordinance and will more than likely be specified by your trash service pickup provider. However, remember that if you have a house that is certified at a capacity of 17 people that would equal 148.75 gallons of total capacity, and you should always round up to the next higher number. In this case, it would be 149 gallons of total trash capacity. As always please ensure that you are following and educating guests about all local HOA and or city ordinances related to trash collection days and times as well as storage of trash containers. 

17. I just received a warning notification letter regarding Walton County Short-Term Vacation Rental Certification Program non-compliance. How much time do I have to become compliant?

All violations are subject to code enforcement activities in accordance with Florida Statutes Chapter 162 and Chapter 7 of Walton County Code 2023-03. 

Warnings. Warnings shall be issued for first-time violations and have a correction/compliance period associated with it. These warnings may include notice to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the Department of Revenue, the Walton County Tax Collector and the Walton County Property Appraiser, as applicable. Non-compliance with a correction compliance period shall result in the issuance of a citation. 

Walton County may utilize Part 1 of Florida Chapter 162 to prosecute these violations and utilize Part 2 of Florida Chapter 162 in order to pursue violations by way of a civil citation system as provided in its Code of Ordinances. 

The civil citation fines per violation shall be set by Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners for first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd) and further repeat violations. Regardless of whether the County utilizes Part 1 or 2, the County may also utilize an appropriate enforcing agency at the state or local level. Each day a violation exists shall constitute a separate violation.

18. How do we know if we are in a Wildlife Protection Zone and if we need to give notice of sea turtle nesting and lighting usage?

You can use the Walton County GIS Website to identify what zone you are located in, click the link below for direct access. 

WALTON COUNTY GIS

19. Does Walton County require a copy of all rental agreements?

No, Walton County does not require you to submit a copy of your rental agreements. 

20. Do we need a FL Dept of Business and Professional Regulation license? If so, how do we obtain one?

YES If you are not currently registered with Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) you are in violation of Florida State law. 

You can obtain a PDBR license by following the link below: 

FL DBPR

21. What is considered "Gross Floor Area" or "Livable Space"?

These areas are commonly referred to as any heated or cooled portion of the structure.

22. Will I have to renew my certificate?

Yes, annual renewal is required in order to maintain certification. Your renal date will be based on the month that you initially received your certificate.  As we implement the Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate Program over the next year, expect to receive correspondence related to your anticipated month to submit your initial certification request. Prior to receiving the correspondence you can initiate required registration and licensing with Florida Department of Revenue, Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, and Walton County Clerk of Courts Tourism Development Tax. Your application will not be processed until your specified month. 

23. Are there any additional requirements?

Yes, ensure that you adhere to the following Walton County Ordinance 2023-03 Section 5.07.03, as well as all applicable State and Municiple requirements: 

A.    Minimum life/safety requirements for single family detached and two family attached units:

1.    Swimming pool, spa and hot tub safety. A swimming pool, spa or hot tub shall comply with the current standards of the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act, Chapter 515, Florida Statutes. 

2.    Sleeping rooms. All sleeping rooms shall meet the single-family and two-family dwelling minimum requirements of the Florida Building Code. 

3.    Automatic smoke detection requirements. All short term vacation rental units are required to meet the requirements of Chapter 69A-43, F.A.C

4.    Fire extinguisher. A portable, multi-purpose dry chemical 2A:10B:C fire extinguisher shall be installed, inspected and maintained in accordance with NFPA 10 on each floor/level of the unit. The extinguisher(s) shall be installed on the wall in an open common area or in an enclosed space with appropriate markings visibly showing the location. 

5.    Battery powered emergency lighting of primary exit. Battery powered emergency lighting which provides illumination automatically in the event of any interruption of normal lighting shall be provided for a period of not less than one (1) hour to illuminate the primary exit. For purposes of this requirement, short-term vacation rentals with Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificates issued prior to the enactment of the ordinance providing for the codification of this standard shall have a period of six (6) months to demonstrate compliance with the emergency lighting standard either through affidavit or inspection.

B.    On-Site Parking Standard for All Single Family Attached and Detached New Construction and Existing Construction. For new construction and new conversions of single family attached and detached units, based on the maximum short-term transient occupancy permitted or other self-imposed limit through the Certificate process, minimum off-street parking shall be provided as one (1) space per six (6) transient occupants. This is computed using 150 square feet gross floor area per person (one space per 900 square feet of gross floor area). This minimum parking standard shall not apply to any adopted Neighborhood Plan, Development Order, or area controlled by an active Homeowner’s Association (HOA) or similar owners’ association having other controlling mandatory parking requirements. In such cases, the Development Order, Neighborhood Plan, or HOA requirements shall govern. 

1.    Garage spaces shall only count if the space is open and available, and the transient occupants are given vehicular access to the garage. Failure to keep garage areas usable for vehicular parking if counted towards meeting the requirement shall result in a Code violation. 

2.    On-street parking shall not be permitted within public rights of ways and may be limited on private rights of ways per the maintaining entity. 

3.    On-site parking shall not be permitted in areas not otherwise designated for on-site parking spaces.

4.    Golf carts, RVs, trailers etc. may not occupy any designated on-site parking spot with reliance on on-street parking for other vehicles. All spaces designated towards achieving the required on-site minimum must be available to registered motor vehicles only unless fewer registered motor vehicles are on site in exchange for golf carts, RVs, trailers etc. being parked on site.

5.    Existing short term vacation rentals at the time of this ordinance shall either limit occupancy based on available parking (6 occupants per parking space), increase parking onsite through the applicable permitting process, or limit the number of vehicles that are on site at any given time through guest communication. In all cases, the maximum occupancy is limited to 1 person per 150 square feet.  

C.    On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Limitations: For structures utilizing on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS), the maximum number of occupants allowed shall be restricted in accordance with any OSTDS permit and the assumed occupancy/conditions the permit was issued under by the Walton County Health Department.

D.    Maximum occupancy. The maximum occupancy load permitted for single family attached and single family detached short term vacation rental units shall be computed at 150 square feet gross floor area per person OR lesser as agreed upon during the certificate process. 

E.    Solid waste handling and containment. Based on the maximum transient occupancy permitted, thirty-five (35) gallons or greater of fully enclosed container capacity shall be provided per four (4) transient occupants or fraction thereof. Appropriate screening and storage requirements for trash storage containers shall apply per any development approval or local neighborhood standard, whichever is more restrictive, and be incorporated into the Certificate. For purposes of this section, containers must have a lid that securely fastens to the container to prevent spills and animal access, with the container to be placed at curbside no earlier than 4:00  PM on the day before solid waste pickup and to be removed from curbside no later than sunset on the day of solid waste pick up unless otherwise controlled by an active Homeowner’s Association (HOA) or similar owners’ association having other controlling mandatory trash container and pick up requirements. Permanent structures for screening and storage of trash storage containers shall not be permitted within any designated scenic corridor overlay district. Private concierge service is highly encouraged, specifically on Saturday or high-volume change over days.

F.    Minimum short-term vacation rental/lease agreement wording. The short-term vacation rental/lease agreement shall contain the minimum information as provided for in Subsection 1.13.16 D.

G.    Minimum short-term vacation rental information required postings. The short-term vacation rental shall be provided with material to be posted within the rental unit as required by the County as prescribed in Subsection 1.13.16 D. 

H.    Minimum short-term vacation rental lessee information. The short-term vacation rental lessee shall be provided with a copy of the information required in Subsection 1.13.16 D.

I.    Responsible Local Party. Designation of a short-term vacation rental responsible party capable of meeting the duties provided in subsection and capable of addressing issues locally within a short response time is required. 

J.    Advertising. Any advertising of the short-term vacation rental unit shall conform to information included in the Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate and the property's approval, particularly as this pertains to maximum occupancy and parking. All advertising shall include the Short Term Vacation Rental Certificate Number as well as the TDT Registration Number.

24. My HOA covenants don't specifically state that short-term vacation rentals are not allowed, can I still have one?

Per Florida Statutes a Homeowners Association has specific powers to regulate certain activities within their covenants. Consult a legal expert for specific advice regarding your particular situations.  

25. What sanitary and safety requirements do I have to meet?

Per Florida Administrative Code 61C-3, as a short-term vacation rental you are required to do the following: 

(1) Glassware, tableware, and utensils.

(a) The handling, cleaning, and sanitizing of glassware, tableware, and utensils in public lodging establishments shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 4, Food Code, as adopted by reference in Rule 61C-1.001, F.A.C. As referenced in this chapter of the Food Code, the term “food establishment” shall apply to all public lodging establishments as defined in Chapter 509, F.S.

(b) Any public lodging establishment which cannot comply with this provision shall post in a conspicuous place in each guest room where dishware, glassware, kitchenware or utensils are provided, a placard or sign which contains the following statement, or its equivalent: 

“NOTICE TO GUESTS: Dishware, glassware, kitchenware and/or utensils have been provided in this room as a guest convenience. These items have been cleaned within this room or unit using ordinary household dishwashing facilities and agents. They have not been sanitized according to Federal and State standards for public food service establishments.”

(2) Kitchen and kitchen equipment – 

(a) Kitchen appliances and refrigeration equipment shall be kept clean, free from odors and in good repair. Refrigerators shall be properly drained. Kitchens shall be ventilated to minimize the occurrence of excessive heat, steam, condensation, vapors, objectionable odors, smoke, and fumes. Kitchens must also have at least 10 foot candles of light, sufficient and suitable cooking utensils, and adequate garbage receptacles. 

(b) A kitchen sink with hot and cold running water under pressure is required.

(3) Ice.

(a) Ice making machines shall utilize water from an approved source pursuant to Chapters 62-550 and 62-555, F.A.C., and shall be constructed, located, installed, operated, and maintained so as to prevent contamination of the ice. Ice obtained from outside the establishment shall be from a source approved under Chapter 500, F.S. Ice storage bins shall be drained through an air gap according to the provisions of the local building authority having jurisdiction.

(b) Canvas containers shall not be used unless provided with a sanitary single-service liner so as to completely protect the ice from contamination. Ice buckets and other ice containers shall be made of a smooth, nonabsorbent, impervious material; shall be designed to facilitate cleaning; shall be kept clean; and shall be stored and handled in a sanitary manner. Ice buckets and other ice containers must be cleaned and sanitized between each guest or be provided with a sanitary single-service liner which is changed at least daily. Between uses, ice containers used to transfer ice from ice making machines to ice storage bins shall be stored in a way that protects the ice containers and ice-dispensing utensils from contamination.

(c) Ice for consumer use shall be dispensed only with scoops, tongs or other ice-dispensing utensils or through automatic self-service, ice-dispensing equipment. Ice-dispensing utensils shall be made of a smooth, nonabsorbent, impervious material; shall be designed to facilitate cleaning; and shall be kept clean. Ice-dispensing utensils shall be stored on a clean surface, attached to a nonoxidizing chain or tether, and stored inside the ice bin or in the ice with the utensil’s handle extended out of the ice. 

(4) Locks – An approved locking device for the purposes of Section 509.211, F.S., is a locking device that meets the requirements of chapter 10, section 1008.1.8 of the 2007 Florida Building Code: Building. Public lodging establishments as defined in paragraph 61C-1.002(4)(a), F.A.C., shall have at least one approved locking device which cannot be opened by a non-master guest room key on all outside and connecting doors. An approved locking device does not include a “sliding chain” or “hook and eye” type device.

(5) Balcony Inspection.

(a) As provided in Section 509.2112, F.S., every public lodging establishment which is 3 or more stories in height must submit to the division a certificate stating that any and all balconies, platforms, stairways, and railways have been inspected by a person who, through education and experience, is competent to inspect multi-story buildings and found by such person to be safe, secure, and free of defects. The term “balcony” is defined as a landing or porch that is accessible to or used by the public and shall include those portions of a building which are unenclosed, except by a railing, guardrail system, balustrade, or parapet. It shall also include those portions of a building which are enclosed by screening or other non-permanent building material.

(b) It is the responsibility of the operator to verify the facts and credentials establishing the competency of the multi-story balcony inspector. Such verification shall be clearly stated on the applicable form.

(c) Certification of inspection shall be submitted on DBPR HR-7020, CERTIFICATE OF BALCONY INSPECTION (http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-06411), incorporated herein by reference and effective 2015 November 10. Copies of this form are available from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants Internet website www.MyFloridaLicense.com/dbpr/hotels-restaurants; by e-mail request submitted at www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/contact-us; by phone request to the department at (850)487-1395; or upon written request to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, 2601 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1011.

(d) The Certificate of Balcony Inspection shall be valid for three years from the date the inspection was completed. Public lodging establishments must file a new certificate with the division and the applicable local government agency every third year. The division must receive the new Certificate of Balcony Inspection on or before the date the previous certificate expires.

(e) The operator shall keep a copy of the Certificate of Balcony Inspection, stamped with the date it was received by the district, available for inspection upon request.

(f) Upon change of ownership, the operator must:

1. Have a new balcony inspection completed and file a new Certificate of Balcony Inspection; or 

2. In lieu of completing a new balcony inspection, file a copy of the previous operator’s valid Certificate of Balcony Inspection along with a Certificate of Balcony Inspection containing the current operator’s information and signature. Choosing this option does not extend the original three years for which the previous operator’s Certificate of Balcony Inspection was valid.

THE ONLY PROVISION THAT YOU CAN BE EXEMPT FROM IS SUBSECTION (1) - ONLY IF YOU DO NOT PROVIDE ANY OF THE SERVICES LISTED

26. What type of smoke detectors do I need in my Short-Term Vacation Rental?

Per Florida Administrative Code 69A-43 - 

69A-43.009 Automatic Smoke Detection Requirements.

(1) The single station smoke detectors specified for construction contracts before October 1, 1983, by Section 509.215, F.S., for transient public lodging establishments which are less than 3 stories in height and by Section 721.24, F.S., for a time-share plan which is less than 3 stories in height shall be approved UL 217, listed single station smoke detector. Existing facilities may continue to use battery powered smoke detectors provided they are tested on a regular basis in accordance with paragraph (1)(b), and replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, as required in Section 2-6 of NFPA 72, the edition as adopted in Rule 69A-3.012, F.A.C., but not less than once every twelve (12) months. New facilities shall have the detectors powered by the building electrical service with a rechargeable battery as a secondary power supply in compliance with NFPA 72, Section 1-5.2.6, the edition as adopted in Rule 69A-3.012, F.A.C.

(a) All such smoke detectors shall comply with NFPA 72, Section 2-3, the edition as adopted in rule Chapter 69A-3, F.A.C.

(b) Battery powered, single station smoke detectors, where used, shall be tested and inspected not less frequently than once per week. A log of the required tests and inspections shall be kept and available to the authority having jurisdiction at any time. This log shall include, but not be limited to, the following information and any other information as may be required by the authority having jurisdiction.

1. A list, clearly identifying each individual detector by its physical location.

2. The date of each required test & inspection.

3. The identity and signature of the inspector.

4. The result of each test & inspection.

5. The completion date and form of any maintenance performed.

6. The completion date and form of any corrective measures taken for each improperly functioning device.

7. A copy of the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and procedures.

(c) At such time that the authority having jurisdiction finds cause to believe that the requirements of paragraph (1)(a) or (b), are not being fulfilled, detectors powered by the building electrical system shall be required.

(2) Specialized smoke detectors for the deaf and hearing-impaired as required by Section 509.215(6), F.S., shall be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for the intended use, and shall:

(a) Have a visual signaling appliance which has an effective intensity rating of at least 100 candela; and,

(b) Be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for the particular purpose of alerting the deaf and hearing impaired in the event of a fire.

27. What other fire safety standards are required for my Short-Term Vacation Rental?

Per Florida Code 69A - 

69A-43.018 One and Two Family Dwellings, Recreational Vehicles and Mobile Homes Licensed as Public Lodging Establishments.

(1) This section applies to one and two family dwellings, recreational vehicles and mobile homes licensed as public lodging establishments as defined in Section 509.013(4)(a), F.S. Except as modified by this rule, one and two family dwellings used by more than one party per living unit shall comply with Chapter 24, One-Family and Two-Family Dwellings, of NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, as adopted in Chapter 69A-3, F.A.C., and incorporated by reference therein.

(2) Three family and four family dwellings licensed as public lodging establishments shall comply with Chapter 28, New Hotels and Dormitories or Chapter 29, Existing Hotels and Dormitories, of NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, as adopted in Chapter 69A-3, F.A.C., and incorporated by reference therein.

(3) Smoke detectors.

(a) One and two family dwellings and mobile homes shall have an approved single station or multiple station smoke detectors continuously powered by the house electrical system.

(b) Recreational vehicles shall have an approved single station smoke detector continuously powered by 120 volt electrical service.

(c) In addition to paragraph (3)(a) or (b), above, an approved single station smoke detector powered by the building electrical system, and 120 volt AC electrical service for recreational vehicles, shall be provided in each sleeping room.

(d) To qualify as “approved,” smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code, the edition as adopted in Chapter 69A-3, F.A.C., and incorporated by reference therein.

(4) Means of egress.

(a) Every one and two family dwelling, recreational vehicle or mobile home licensed as a public lodging establishment shall have a minimum of one primary exit and one secondary means of escape.

(b) The primary means of exit shall be a door, stairway, or ramp providing a means of unobstructed exit travel to the outside of the dwelling, recreational vehicle or mobile home, at street or ground level.

(c) The secondary means of escape shall be one of the following:

1. A door, stairway or ramp providing a way of unobstructed exit travel to the outside of the dwelling, recreational vehicle or mobile home, at street or ground level that is independent of and remote from the primary means of exit; or

2. An outside window or door operable from the inside, without the use of tools or special equipment, that provides a clear opening having a minimum of 5.7 square feet of area with no dimension less than 20 inches in width or 24 inches in height. The bottom of the opening shall not be more than 44 inches off the floor. The opening must be directly accessible to fire department rescue apparatus or fire department extension ladder.

(d) The secondary means of exit and sleeping room smoke detectors are not required if the dwelling, recreational vehicle or mobile home is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems, or NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One and Two Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes, or NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies Up to Four Stories in Height, as adopted in Chapter 69A-3, F.A.C., and incorporated by reference therein.

(5) The maximum occupancy load permitted for one and two family dwellings and mobile homes licensed as public lodging establishments shall be computed at 150 square feet gross floor area per person. The occupancy load for recreational vehicles licensed as public lodging establishments will be the occupancy load designated by the manufacturer of the recreational vehicle, which shall be posted in the vehicle.

(6) Battery powered emergency lighting shall be provided for a period of not less than one (1) hour to illuminate the primary exit. The emergency lighting shall provide illumination automatically in the event of any interruption of normal lighting.

(7) Minimum acceptable portable fire extinguisher requirements shall conform to NFPA 10, as adopted in Rule 69A-3.012, F.A.C.

(8) A floor diagram reflecting the actual floor arrangement, primary exit location, secondary exit location and room identification shall be posted in a conspicuous location.

(9) A fire safety information pamphlet describing evacuation of the dwelling or vehicle, smoke detector information, procedures for reporting a fire or other emergency shall be provided to guests.

(10) Unvented fuel fired heaters shall not be utilized in one and two family dwellings, recreational vehicles or mobile homes licensed as public lodging establishments.

(11) Specialized smoke detectors for the deaf and hearing impaired shall be available upon request by guests in public lodging establishments at a rate of at least one such smoke detector per 50 dwelling units or portions thereof, not to exceed five such smoke detectors per public lodging facility, as provided in Section 509.215(6), F.S.

28. How long do I have to become compliant with the life safety requirements in the Ordinance?

No grace period. The majority of requirements within Ordinance 2023-03 are reiterations of state statutes and codes. Your property should already be in compliance, if not you could be potentially fined per day until each item meets the requirements. 

29. Will I automatically receive a Walton County Certificate if I am registered with Florida Department of Revenue, Department of Business & Professional Regulation, and Walton County TDT registration?

No, a complete application with supporting documents must be submitted to the Walton County Department of Planning & Development Services, with appropriate fee, before consideration of approval. 

The Florida Department of Revenue, Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulations, and Walton County Tourism Development Tax registrations are all pre-requisites for the Walton County Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate. Each are individually administrated by their respective entities.

30. For the required posted materials inside unit, can these be in a binder, in the home?

No, Ordinance 2023-03 Section 1.13.16.G.1 clearly states that required posting information will be posted on the back or next to the main entrance door or on the refrigerator. The only exception would be rentals with three (3) levels above the ground, on the third floor and every higher floor next to the interior of each bedroom, a legible copy of the building evacuation map. Minimum 8 ½ inches by 11 inches.

Additionally, there are other State required posted materials.   

31. Where do I get the evacuation routes with flood zone information?

Walton County Interactive Mapping service has all the information related flood zones, evacuation routes and more. You can access it for free here Walton County Interactive Mapping (arcgis.com) 

32. Where do I find the approved locking device list?

 The requirements for locking devices can be found in chapter 10, section 1008.1.8 of the 2007 Florida Building Code. 

33. Is every home required to have the specialized smoke alarm for the hearing impaired?

It is an Americans with Disabilities Act and Florida Administrative Code Chapter 69A-43 requirement. By law you are required to have available upon request one (1) per 50 dwellings, not to exceed five such smoke detectors per public lodging facility.  If you only have one property, then you would have to have one (1) for that unit. However, a managing company would only be required to maintain the 1:50 ratio. 

34. Do I have to register my condominium as a short-term vacation rental with Walton County?

Based on Walton County Definition of a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Ordinance 2023-03, condominiums are excluded from the certification process. However, Florida Code / Statutes have specific requirements for all buildings transient temporary lodging.  Additionally, you MUST be registered with Florida Department of Revenue, Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, and Walton County Clerk of Courts Tourism Development Tax. 

35. Can I rent out my carriage house as a vacation rental and I live in the main house?

Walton County Code Appendix C, Chapter II, 2.02.00 (Zoning Districts Established) clearly states that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) shall not be available for short-term vacation rentals. You could live in your ADU (Carriage House) and rent out your main dwelling without going through the certification process. However, all Federal, State, and County registrations, licenses and life safety requirements must be met with respect to your main dwelling. 

36. I'm a property manager, can I apply for a Walton County Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate on behalf of the owner(s)?

The decision whether to personally register or have an agent do so is completely up to the property owner. However, Property Managers will need to obtain notarized signatures on the Affidavit of Compliance and Agent Affidavit from the property owners in order to apply on their behalf. The reference packet can be found at: https://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentCenter/View/41729/ShortTermVacationRentalCertApp_Packet