Pinellas County is set to discuss proposed updates to short-term rental rules for unincorporated areas during their Tuesday meeting. The conversation follows growing concerns over issues like occupancy, noise, parking, and other disturbances, prompting numerous residents to voice their frustrations to the commission.

At last month’s meeting, one neighbor recounted disruptive experiences, stating, “I’ve witnessed people urinating in the front yard, intoxicated guests attempting to enter my home, and constant doorbell ringing late at night.” Other residents echoed similar complaints, citing problems with nudity, violence, trespassing, loud music, drug use, and threats from renters. Notably, no one at the meeting spoke in support of short-term rentals.

Some commissioners have acknowledged witnessing these issues firsthand, with one comparing their neighborhood to a frat house. County data reveals over 2,600 short-term rentals in unincorporated Pinellas County, alongside a doubling of noise complaints over the past year.

State pre-emption laws restrict the county’s regulatory STR power, but new measures are under consideration. Proposed rules would require owners to register with the county before listing on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, along with paying a $450 annual fee. Additional regulations include mandatory bi-annual inspections, funded by property owners, and a cap of 10 occupants per rental, including children.

Non-compliance with the new rules, if approved, could result in significant fines from code enforcement. The county commission meeting begins at 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Commissioners have previously indicated full support for the changes, which could take effect as early as April if passed.

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