I live in Tampa and wanted to grab some STRs in St Pete but the regulations I was given were 30 day minimum rental. 

Along with an engineering firm at the ready, of whom helped me with the conceptual design.All of the business stuff, RE stuff, Government stuff has all been a "learn as I go" thing.

For example, most areas in Pinellas county have very strict regulations when it comes to this kind of investing. 

Louis Airbnb regulations" a bunch of the articles come up, but here is a link to one that I've read: https://news.stlpublicradio.org/post/taxes-spike-dozens-st-louis-airbnb-properties#stream/0

This is my first time ever navigating zoning and building permitting, so I don't know how flexible or rigid these things are.Given that the new self-storage facility would be a big improvement over the current vacant and dilapidated warehouse it seems like it would be in their best interest, but I've heard that the local government can be very strict including preventing expansion on another nearby self-storage facility by changing their zoning.

So I should check with my county to see about getting a permitted apartment on the property, abide by those regulations, then FHA would recognize the property as a duplex/multiple family or whatever was approved by the county?

The logistics of the rules and regulations may make it cost prohibitive unless you actually lived there. 

There's some complications when you say you intend to buy a house by have absolutely no funds to actually buy it.In your case, check with your broker on regulations, disclose that you are a realtor, and get the deal done. 

It will continue to happen until the city gets new zoning regulations. 

., I would take @Daniel Moffett and @Nathan G. advice.Always follow the regulations and be prompt on your notices.