Pensacola Beach weighs tighter rules on short-term rentals amid resident complaints

Pensacola Beach is evaluating stricter regulations for short-term vacation rentals, including a public registry and a mandatory 24-hour contact for each property. Local advocate Rhonda Dorfman says the move would help sheriffs identify responsible owners when complaints arise, especially regarding noise, underage drinking and excessive trash left after guest departures. She points out that many of the problematic rentals are large houses that can accommodate 30 or 40 people, generating multiple cars and heightened waste.

While residents want to retain the economic benefits of tourism, they seek to protect the low-density character of their neighborhoods. Officials are reviewing similar rules used in Gulf Breeze, Anna Maria Island and Panama City as possible models.