Your “finder’s fee” concept is sounding more like you could be brokering the sale of real property which is regulated, ie you’d need a real estate license and so on...

Your designated broker should be able to answer that question, or you could call your MLS - although it is maybe a state and not an MLS regulation (not sure about that).

I've been going through each of the zoning classifications this morning and trying to sort out what's allowed and under what regulations in each zone.

@Rene Owczarski  Yes, I am familiar with the regulations. 

It's been doing great here in TX but youd have to check regulations for STRs in your area to see if it's worth it.

Start by finding out what the requirements are in that area.Where I live, an acre is usually the minimum lot size, but if you’re trying to subdivide you also have to take into account minimum setback and other proximity regulations.

My concern with short term rentals is all down to the regulations.

I know acquisition time or commute time do not count for 500 hours material participation in rental properties but couldn’t find any regulation saying they don’t count for that 750 hours total RE involvement.

The tax code, regulations and related rulings have no holding period. 

Without question you need to check regulations in your area because most cities have some limitation on what you can do (even with your primary residence).