Transient generally means something that is temporary. The term is often used in relation to occupancy of property for rent to others, such as hotels and other places of lodging. Transient residents are governed by state and local laws, which vary by jurisdiction. For example, some localities charge a fee for permits to house transient residents.
The following is an example of a Florida state law dealing with transients:
"transient occupancy" means occupancy when it is the intention of the parties that the occupancy will be temporary. There is a rebuttable presumption that, when the dwelling unit occupied is the sole residence of the guest, the occupancy is nontransient. There is a rebuttable presumption that, when the dwelling unit occupied is not the sole residence of the guest, the occupancy is transient.
(13) "transient" means a guest in transient occupancy."
