Florence Short‑Term Rentals: Permits and Spacing Rules

Thinking about listing your Florence home as a short‑term rental but unsure where permits and spacing rules fit in? You are not alone. The guidelines can change depending on whether your address sits inside Florence city limits or in unincorporated Boone County, and that affects your next steps. In this guide, you’ll learn how to confirm your jurisdiction, what permits and spacing rules to look for, and the practical checklist to launch and operate legally. Let’s dive in.

Florence vs. Boone County: Know your jurisdiction

Before you do anything else, confirm whether your property is inside the City of Florence or in unincorporated Boone County. Each has its own rules, processes, and decision makers. If your property is inside Florence, city ordinances and city departments will guide your permitting. If you are outside the city, Boone County zoning and the Boone County Planning Commission apply.

This first step helps you avoid filing with the wrong office and saves time. You can usually verify jurisdiction using local GIS maps or by contacting city or county planning staff. Keep a note of your parcel ID and zoning district for later steps.

Check zoning before you buy or host

Zoning determines whether short‑term rentals are allowed, allowed with conditions, or not allowed in a specific district. Ask for a zoning verification or check with planning staff for the permitted uses in your district. If the use is conditional, you may need a hearing or special approval.

If you are evaluating a purchase with STR income in mind, build this verification into your due diligence. Getting clarity early helps you time your application, plan parking and occupancy, and avoid costly surprises.

Permits and registration in Florence

Florence may require a short‑term rental permit or registration to operate legally. You should confirm the exact process, forms, and renewal cycle with Florence Planning and Zoning or the City Clerk. Typical application materials include:

• Proof of ownership or owner authorization if you are not the owner.
• A simple floor plan that shows bedrooms and exits.
• A site plan that shows required parking spaces.
• Proof of insurance that covers short‑term rental activity.
• A local emergency contact or manager available 24/7.
• Proof of state tax registration if required.
• Confirmation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Processing for initial approvals commonly takes a few weeks from a complete submittal, and renewals are often faster. Fees vary by city and program. Confirm current amounts with the city before you apply.

Spacing rules: What to expect

Some cities limit how close short‑term rentals can be to each other or cap the number per block. Spacing can be measured in feet from property line to property line, as a radius, or by the number of permits allowed in a defined area. Owner‑occupied rentals are sometimes treated differently.

You will want to ask Florence directly whether spacing rules apply to your zoning district, how the distance is measured, and whether any exemptions exist. If spacing applies, timing matters. Submitting a complete application promptly can protect your place in line.

Occupancy, parking, and house rules

Expect limits on the number of overnight guests and where guests can park. Many communities use formulas such as a set number per bedroom, with additional caps. Off‑street parking is often required, and some areas restrict on‑street parking.

Be ready to document your parking plan and to post clear house rules for guests. Rules often prohibit events or large gatherings and may restrict signage. Ask the city how occupancy is calculated and which parking standards you must meet in your district.

Safety and inspections

Life‑safety is at the core of most STR programs. You may need an inspection before you begin hosting and at renewal. Common safety items include smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, accessible exits and egress windows, fire extinguishers, posted emergency contacts, and clear trash procedures.

Schedule inspections early to avoid delays. If repairs or upgrades are required, respond quickly and keep receipts and photos for your records.

Taxes and licenses in Kentucky and Florence

Short‑term rental income typically triggers tax obligations. You may need to register for state sales or transient room tax with the Kentucky Department of Revenue and follow any local lodging tax or city business license requirements. Collection platforms do not replace your duty to register and remit when required.

Confirm which taxes and licenses apply to your specific location, the filing schedule, and whether platforms collect any portion on your behalf. Late filings can lead to penalties, so set reminders for due dates.

When Boone County rules apply

If your property sits outside Florence city limits, the Boone County Planning Commission and county zoning rules apply. In some zoning districts, a Conditional Use Permit or special approval may be required for transient lodging.

County approvals often involve a public hearing, neighbor notifications, and conditions on operations, parking, or occupancy. Application packets typically include a site plan, floor plans, and a written response to compatibility and traffic questions. County boards follow set meeting calendars, so plan several weeks to a few months from application to decision.

Typical timeline from idea to permit

Most hosts can plan a straightforward path if they begin early and submit complete materials. A common timeline looks like this:

• Pre‑application research and zoning check: 1 to 2 weeks.
• Prepare forms, plans, and safety upgrades: 1 to 2 weeks.
• Application review and inspections: 2 to 6 weeks.
• County conditional use process, if needed: 6 to 12 weeks.

Build in a cushion for inspection scheduling and any required fixes. Keep your communications with staff courteous and prompt to keep things moving.

Step‑by‑step compliance checklist

Use this quick checklist to stay organized:

1. Confirm jurisdiction to see if Florence or Boone County rules apply.
2. Verify zoning and whether STR is permitted or conditional.
3. Contact the permitting authority for the current application packet and fee schedule.
4. Ask if owner‑occupied units have different requirements.
5. Prepare attachments: site plan, floor plan, proof of insurance, local manager contact, safety device documentation, and any tax registrations.
6. Submit your application and pay required fees.
7. Schedule building or fire inspections as directed.
8. Register for applicable state and local taxes and set up remittance.
9. Post required in‑unit notices: emergency contact, maximum occupancy, and house rules.
10. Renew on time and keep records of bookings, issues, and resolutions.

Avoid these common pitfalls

• Assuming STRs are allowed everywhere without checking zoning.
• Skipping tax registration and remittance.
• Overlooking parking requirements or occupancy caps.
• Relying on platform policies instead of local law.
• Not naming a local contact who can respond quickly to complaints.

Addressing these early reduces complaints and protects your permit.

For neighbors: How to get answers

If you live near a short‑term rental and have questions, start with your city or county code enforcement office. Ask about the complaint process, response timelines, and whether contact info for permitted STRs is available. If you observe ongoing disturbances, keep a written log with dates and times and follow the formal complaint procedure.

Being specific and factual helps staff resolve issues quickly. Most programs are designed to balance neighborhood peace with responsible hosting.

Local help for a smooth STR plan

Planning to buy a property in Florence or elsewhere in Northern Kentucky with short‑term rental potential? You can save time by aligning your property search with zoning, spacing, and parking realities from day one. As a local residential expert, I can help you:

• Identify homes whose zoning and site layout are more likely to support STR approvals.
• Coordinate due diligence with city or county staff during your inspection period.
• Compare neighborhoods and property types to fit your revenue goals and compliance needs.
• Navigate timing so you can list quickly once you are permitted.

Ready to explore your options or pressure‑test a specific address? Schedule a free consultation and get a clear, practical plan for your next step.

FAQs

What counts as a short‑term rental in Florence, KY?

• Definitions vary by jurisdiction. Confirm the current definition and any exemptions with Florence’s code or planning staff before you apply.

Do I need a city permit to host an Airbnb in Florence?

• Many cities require a permit or registration. Contact Florence Planning and Zoning or the City Clerk to confirm if a permit is required and what documents you need.

Are there spacing rules between short‑term rentals in Florence?

• Some communities use minimum separation distances or caps per block. Ask Florence how spacing is measured, which zones it applies to, and whether any exemptions exist.

How many guests can I allow in a Florence rental?

• Occupancy is often tied to bedrooms or a fixed cap. Request the specific calculation method from Florence and post the maximum occupancy inside the unit.

What taxes apply to Northern Kentucky short‑term rentals?

• You may need to register for state sales or transient room taxes and follow any local lodging tax and business license rules. Verify registration steps and due dates with the appropriate agencies.

Does Boone County allow short‑term rentals outside Florence?

• It depends on your zoning district. Some locations may require a Conditional Use Permit with a public hearing. Contact the Boone County Planning Commission for current requirements.