Destin and the 30A corridor sit side by side on the Emerald Coast, but they are in different counties. Destin is in Okaloosa County, while Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach and the 30A beach towns are in Walton County. Before you hire a cleaner or co-host, figure out which county and city rules apply, because registration, taxes and signage all differ.
Florida requires most vacation rentals to hold a state license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and to collect state sales tax. Local rules then layer on top.
In the City of Destin, as of 2026, houses in designated zoning districts must register every year starting January 1. The city lists fees of $500, $600 or $700 depending on square footage, with late penalties after March 31 and June 1. Occupancy is capped at two adults per bedroom plus four more people, with a maximum of 24 overnight. An 18 by 18 inch exterior sign must show contacts, occupancy and parking, and an emergency contact must be able to reach the property within one hour.
Walton County requires annual vacation rental registration, renewing each June 1. As of February 2025 the county lists $300 per year for an individual property, with a $500 per day penalty for operating unregistered. Taxes: Okaloosa County's tourist development tax is 6% in both its original and expanded districts, and the South Walton tourist development tax is 5% south of Choctawhatchee Bay. Both are on top of state sales tax and the county surtax. Confirm with each county clerk whether your platform remits the local tax for you.
We did not find a published local price survey, so compare written quotes. Expect pricing to be driven by size, since large beach houses with bunk rooms are common, plus sand removal, outdoor showers, pool and golf cart areas, and linen service. Many homes use offsite linen companies, so ask whether laundry is included or billed separately.
Summer and spring break are the peak, with heavy Saturday check-ins that create same-day turnovers across the whole coast. Fall is strong and winter brings longer, slower snowbird stays. Hurricane season runs June through November. Secure your cleaning crew and a backup before March, because good crews fill their Saturday slots early.
No. Destin is in Okaloosa County and 30A is in Walton County, so registration, taxes and enforcement are handled by different offices.
As of 2026, the City of Destin allows two adults per bedroom plus four additional people, up to 24. Verify with the city.
The county lists a $500 per day penalty for operating without registration.
Sources:
Part of the same family as WelcomeScreen and Valdra