Hillsborough County: vacation rentals must register from January

On September 2, 2026, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved new rules for short-term vacation rentals. They apply to the unincorporated parts of the county around Tampa. According to WUSF, the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City can choose to adopt them as well. Tampa Bay 28 reports that the rules take effect on January 1, 2027.

What owners will need

• Registration: owners must register each rental with the county and pay $200 a year, WUSF reports. There is a $50 fee if you don't allow a scheduled inspection.
• Local contact: you must name a contact who is reachable at all hours and can get to the property within one hour, according to FOX 13.
• Safety: owners sign an affidavit that the property meets life-safety codes. According to Tampa Bay 28, there is no mandatory inspection before registration, and the county plans a 24/7 complaint line.
• Fines: owners can be fined if a guest breaks county code, and unpaid fines can become liens on the property.

What happens next

The Center Square reports that the county expects more than 3,000 properties to be affected and about $600,000 in fees in one year. According to FOX 13, staff will report back 90 days after the rules take effect, and commissioners may then revisit random inspections and the fee. WUSF reports that a lower recurring fee after the first $200 payment was also discussed.

What does this mean for you?