Sarasota Proposes 71% Increase in Vacation Rental Renewal Fees

Updated October 19, 2026: This article has been updated to include developments from the October 19 Sarasota City Commission meeting and remarks from RASM Vice President of Advocacy and Member Programs Max Brandow.

The City of Sarasota is considering significant changes to its vacation rental regulations that could impact property owners, managers, and REALTORS®. RASM is speaking up on behalf of its members as discussions continue.

If you own, manage, or work with vacation rental properties in the City of Sarasota, proposed changes to the City's Vacation Rental Compliance Program could mean higher operating costs and additional requirements for your business.

The Sarasota City Commission considered the proposed changes on Monday, October 19, including an increase in annual vacation rental renewal fees from $350 to $600, a more than 71% increase. The proposed changes have not been finalized.

What's Being Proposed?

The proposed changes include:

• Higher Renewal Fees: Annual vacation rental renewal fees would increase from $350 to $600.
• Additional Staffing: The City's vacation rental program would expand from five to seven staff members.
• Program Changes: Updates to registration, inspections, and administrative procedures.

Why This Matters to REALTORS®

Higher vacation rental fees can affect more than just property owners. They can also impact property management costs, investment decisions, and the expenses your clients face.

For REALTORS® working with vacation rentals and investment properties, these changes could directly affect your business and the clients you serve.

RASM supports reasonable regulations that protect public safety and maintain neighborhood standards. However, we believe these goals can be achieved without placing unnecessary financial and administrative burdens on responsible property owners and managers.

In an October 15 letter to the City Commission, RASM encouraged Commissioners to reconsider the proposed fee increases, explore more efficient inspection and registration procedures, and provide opportunities for property owners and managers to share feedback before changes are finalized.

RASM Advocates for REALTORS® at City Commission Meeting

On Monday, October 19, RASM Vice President of Advocacy and Member Programs Max Brandow addressed the Sarasota City Commission during its public meeting on the proposed changes to the Vacation Rental Compliance Program.

RASM continues to advocate for regulations that balance public safety and neighborhood standards with the needs of property owners, managers, and REALTORS®.

Watch Max Brandow's remarks to the Sarasota City Commission below.

Watch Video

What's Next?

The proposed changes to Sarasota's Vacation Rental Compliance Program have not been finalized. Additional consideration by the City Commission is expected before any changes take effect.

RASM will continue to follow the issue, advocate on behalf of members, and provide updates as discussions move forward.

If you have any questions, please contact Max Brandow, Vice President of Advocacy and Member Programs, at Maxwell@myrasm.com.