Last Updated: October 9, 2025
Short-term rentals continue to generate interest across Clearwater, but the city enforces a 31-day minimum stay in most residential neighborhoods. Investors should confirm how local ordinances, homeowners association bylaws, and Pinellas County rules intersect before writing an offer. The breakdown below clarifies where rentals of fewer than 31 days may be possible and how to evaluate properties that appear on the market.
Clearwater STR Options at a Glance
| Location Type | Typical Minimum Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Legacy properties on Clearwater Beach | Daily or weekly | Rights generally tied to property; confirm grandfather letters and occupancy caps. |
| Condo-hotels | Daily or nightly | On-site management often required; review rental split and amenity fees. |
| Specialty HOAs/condos | 7–14 days | A small number of associations publish short-term allowances; request the latest declarations. |
| Unincorporated Pinellas pockets | Varies | Follow county ordinance Chapter 134; properties display "Unincorporated" in tax records. |
Key Ordinance Considerations
- City of Clearwater Municipal Code §3-1206 establishes the 31-day minimum stay for most residential zoning districts.
- Transient lodging is only permitted in Tourist Districts and Commercial Tourist zoning overlays.
- Advertising compliance is required—listings must reflect the legal minimum stay to avoid fines.
- Business tax receipts are mandatory for any property rented for 30 days or less, even within permitted zones.
Always confirm whether a property sits in the city limits or the county. Use the Pinellas County Property Appraiser search tool and contact Clearwater's Planning & Development Department at (727) 562-4567 for parcel-specific guidance.
Due Diligence Checklist
- Verify zoning and jurisdiction. Cross-reference property tax records with municipal boundary maps to determine whether city or county rules apply.
- Request association documents. Obtain the latest declaration, bylaws, and rental addenda for any condo or HOA-controlled community.
- Confirm grandfather status in writing. Legacy rental rights should be backed by documentation from the city; do not rely on MLS remarks alone.
- Budget for occupancy taxes. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue and Pinellas County Tax Collector for sales and tourist development taxes.
- Plan for professional management. Many buildings require on-site or approved management companies; include their costs in your underwriting.
Clearwater Neighborhood Snapshots
Clearwater Beach Legacy Properties
Some single-family homes and duplexes on north Clearwater Beach received transient rental permissions before ordinances tightened. When these properties trade hands, buyers inherit the use rights, provided operations remain continuous. Expect limited inventory and premium pricing because the ability to rent nightly is scarce.
Condo-Hotel Inventory
Resort-style buildings such as Sandpearl Residences, Hyatt Regency, and Avalon Club operate with hospitality-like amenities. Investors benefit from turnkey management but should review owner usage restrictions, marketing fees, and reserve schedules. These properties are attractive for owners who want occasional personal use while offsetting holding costs.
Specialty HOAs and Condominiums
A handful of mainland communities—including select units in Sky Harbour and the Station Square Lofts—allow weekly rentals. Policies vary by tower, so it is critical to examine the exact unit's addenda. Look for clauses requiring guest registration, parking limits, and minimum lease terms during peak season.
Unincorporated Pockets
Certain addresses north of Sunset Point Road or south near Belleair adopt Pinellas County's ordinance, which is more permissive for vacation rentals. Investors should still confirm whether additional overlay districts or deed restrictions apply and ensure consistent compliance with life-safety inspections.
Additional Resources
- City of Clearwater Planning & Development
- Pinellas County Tourist Development Tax
- FEMA Flood Maps
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Lead-Friendly Next Steps
If you are exploring a short-term rental purchase in Clearwater, our team can:
- Model projected cash flow scenarios, including occupancy taxes and cleaning fees.
- Introduce trusted CPAs and attorneys for compliance and entity structuring.
- Coordinate insurance quotes that account for flood exposure and rental activity.
- Review association bylaws to confirm nightly or weekly rental allowances.
Schedule a consultation or call (727) 625-1777 to discuss your investment goals and the neighborhoods that align best.