Lido Key Vacation Rental Rules

City certificate required

A City of Sarasota Vacation Rental Certificate of Registration is required before renting a unit for under 30 days, with a city inspection and approval first. Operating without it has been illegal since January 1, 2025. Renew annually between July 1 and October 1.

Fees

Initial registration is $500 (inspection included), annual renewal $350, re-inspection $100, late application $200, all non-refundable.

Occupancy and parking

Maximum occupancy in single-family zones is two per bedroom plus two, or 10 total, whichever is less, with up to 12 in multi-family. All guest parking must be on-site, and a responsible party must respond within one hour at any time. Posted safety items (smoke and CO detectors, fire extinguishers, pool safety, emergency information) are required.

Mid-term is exempt

Stays of 30 days or more are outside the certificate program. They still owe transient tax if six months or less.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lido Key under county or city rules?

City. Lido Key is inside the City of Sarasota, so the city Vacation Rental Certificate program applies, not the unincorporated-county rules used on Siesta Key.

What does it cost and how often do I renew?

Initial registration is $500 with the inspection included, renewed annually for $350, with renewals filed between July 1 and October 1.

More about Lido Key

• Longboat Key vacation rentals, just north across the New Pass Bridge
• Sarasota vacation rentals by area