What are the best methods to independently verify zoning and land use data to ensure compliance with local regulations?

There's a good chance the issue(s) you face has already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

And the locals in Highlands have been fiercely debating STR's and regulations for the last few years, so I wouldn't be comfortable buying there.

But properties priced and marketed appropriately can still go under contract in a matter of days.

Great idea, but check your local regulations.

This means that you will probably need to pay registration and filing fees in at least 2 states if you don’t buy CA property as a CA resident.Any lawsuits should be limited to the assets of the LLC and not your personal assets (assuming you run the LLC appropriately and the corporate veil is not pierced, some debate as to SMLLC).

I'm looking to buy a house in the St Pete market & have read zoning regulations, articles about STR (anything less than 30 days) and have discussed with my realtor.  

Personally, after working with numerous property managers in Las Vegas, I only trust two to handle this task for my properties.Compliance Is ComplicatedProperty management involves navigating a maze of city, state, and federal regulations.

As long as you listen to your insurance company's regulations as well as your local ordinances you should be fine. 

Something has to get better in that market as the regulations are too confining and essentially up to interpretation by the city explore you engage with.