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May 20th COVID-19 Update

Escambia County Short-Term Vacation Rental Plan Approved

Escambia County received the official letter from Secretary Halsey Beshears with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation approving the short-term vacation rental plan that was submitted Friday, May 15.  This plan went into effect immediately and will be reviewed weekly.

The county will continue to monitor the Department’s Emergency Information Page for additional information and guidance related to vacation rentals or other businesses regulated by the Department during the ongoing “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery.”

Greater Pensacola Chamber President Todd Thomson:

“I appreciate Secretary Beshears efficient review and approval of Escambia County’s Safety Plan for Short-Term Vacation Rentals. I implore our rental owners and guests to follow the safety measures and best practices provided to ensure a safe and responsible reopening.”

The plan presented to the Secretary would allow for short-term vacation rental reservations and the acceptance of arriving guests in Escambia County, began May 19, 2020, and includes the following:

Reservations

  • Reservations and stays will be allowed from U.S. states with a COVID-19 Case Rate less than 700 cases/100K residents as of May 15. View here.
  • Reservations from COVID-19 hot spots identified by the Governor are to be avoided for the next 30- 45 days.
  • Reservations from international travelers will not be accepted.

Health and Safety of Guests

  • Remote check-ins should be made available when possible to cut down on face-to-face interactions.
  • CDC resources must be provided to any guest while staying on property.
  • CDC guidance must be provided to guests traveling with pets and service/assistance animals if the property is pet friendly.
  • All properties must provide local COVID-19 guidance for guests. Escambia County has a dedicated webpage that includes local information at myescambia.com/COVID19
  • Employees or contractors working in short-term rentals will be provided CDC related safety guidance to alleviate the transmission of the virus and provide further protection for employees and guests.

 

You can the view Escambia County’s Safety Plan for Short-Term Vacation Rentals here.

You can see Secretary Beshears approval letter here.