September 2, 2026 - Work Session - 2026-09-02 09:00:00

The Manatee County Commissioner work session on September 2, 2026, focused extensively on the regulation and enforcement of short-term rentals (STRs) within unincorporated Manatee County. Staff presented various options for managing STRs, including enforcing existing ordinances, creating a dedicated STR ordinance with registration and inspection requirements, and coordinating with fire marshals for safety inspections. The discussion covered occupancy limits, noise enforcement challenges, complaint handling, and the potential use of software vendors like Granicus for registration and compliance management. Budget considerations were significant, with comparisons to other counties highlighting staffing needs and costs potentially exceeding $200,000 annually. Public comments reflected diverse views, emphasizing the need for balanced regulation to protect neighborhoods while supporting responsible STR operators. Commissioners expressed interest in pursuing an ordinance, clarifying noise enforcement policies, and developing a phased operational plan to improve compliance and enforcement. Legal questions regarding zoning and transient lodging definitions were noted for further review. Overall, the meeting laid groundwork for drafting STR regulations with a focus on enforcement, community impact, and fiscal responsibility.