Can I Airbnb in Walton County, FL? (2026)
Short-term rentals are legal throughout unincorporated Walton County (including all of 30A) — Florida law preempts the county from banning them or imposing night caps or minimum stays — but every non-exempt rental must hold an annual Walton County Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate ($300/year per unit) plus a state DBPR vacation rental license, Florida DOR tax registration, and a Walton County Tourist Development Tax account. The biggest restrictions are an occupancy cap of one person per 150 sq ft, a mandatory 24/7 local responsible party who can reach the property within one hour, exterior signage rules, and $500/day fines for operating without a certificate. Always confirm current requirements with the county before operating.
What’s required: a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate (Walton County Vacation Rental Registration Program) ($300) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew annual.
Check a specific address
Rules can vary by zone and parcel. Resolve any Florida street address to its jurisdiction and see the verified rules that apply.
Related
Verified July 12, 2026. Informational only — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Also check HOA/condo rules and your lease, which can prohibit short-term rentals even where the city allows them.