Comprehensive FAQs for Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations in Houston, TX
Last updated: April 2025
Investing in short-term rental (STR) properties requires an in-depth understanding of local regulations. Below is a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for STR operators and investors to help you navigate the rules in Houston and stay compliant while maximizing profitability.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: On April 16, 2025, Houston City Council adopted athe first-ever ordinance creating regulations for short-term rentals (STR) properties operating in Houston, TX. Applications will become available on August 1st. The following replies are in line with the proposed ordinance. All Airbnb operators must have a valid Certificate of Registration by January 1st, 2026.
1. What is considered a short-term rental in Houston?
A short-term rental (STR) in Houston is “a dwelling unit or any portion of a dwelling unit that is rented out or offered to be rented out for a period of less than 30 consecutive days,” excluding boarding homes, hotels, bed & breakfasts, lodging facilities, alternate housing facilities, federally or state-regulated facilities, and leaseback arrangements under which a seller leases back from the purchaser .
2. Do I need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Houston?
Yes. As of August 2025, it will be unlawful to operate, rent, lease, or advertise any STR within Houston city limits without first registering and obtaining a Certificate of Registration from the City by submitting the prescribed application and non-refundable fee as set out in Sec. 28-731.
3. What are the zoning laws for STRs in Houston?
There are no zoning-based restrictions specific to STRs. Any dwelling unit within the Houston city limits may operate as an STR provided the owner or operator holds a valid Certificate of Registration under Sec. 28-722.
4. Are there occupancy limits for short-term rentals in Houston?
There are no maximum occupancy limits imposed by the ordinance.
5. What taxes are short-term rental hosts required to pay?
All STR properties within the city limits must pay the City of Houston’s Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) through Houston First Corporation in accordance with Article III of Chapter 44 of Houston’s Code of Ordinances and state law.
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6. What safety and health requirements for STR properties in Houston?
STR owners, operators, and occupants must comply with:
- Noise and sound level regulations under Chapter 30;
- Buildings and neighborhood protection requirements under Chapter 10;
- Solid waste and litter control under Chapter 39;
- Construction and Fire Code provisions;
- A one-night minimum stay;
- The prohibition on advertising the STR as an event space.
They must also post onsite the approved Certificate of Registration and 24-hour emergency contact information.
7. How are noise and nuisance complaints handled in Houston?
In Houston, complaints regarding noise, nuisance, or other violations may be reported 24/7 through the Host Compliance by Granicus hotline and web portal, and the City may abate nuisances under Chapter 10 or enforce noise violations under Chapter 30. Repeated nuisance or noise violations can lead to certificate revocation. More information about the Noise and Sound Ordinance can be found here.
8. Can I manage multiple rental properties in Houston?
Yes. You may operate multiple STR units; however, each individual dwelling unit (including separate condominium or apartment units) requires its own Certificate of Registration. There is no cap on the total number of STRs an owner may register.
9. What are the penalties for non-compliance with STR regulations in Houston?
Any violation of the STR provisions is punishable by a fine of $100 to $500 per violation, per day. Each day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense. Additionally, certificates may be revoked for certain violations, and those revocations can carry a one-year prohibition on reapplication.
10. Are there any updates or changes to Houston’s STR regulations I should be aware of?
On April 16, 2025, the Houston City Council enacted its first-ever regulations for short-term rental properties in the city; applications will open on August 1. The Proposed Short-Term Rental Regulations are part of this article.
Adoption Date: April 16, 2025 (City Council adoption).
Registration Portal: Expected live on or about August 1, 2025.
Compliance Deadline: All STR operators must have a valid Certificate of Registration by January 1st, 2026 .
11. Can I self-manage my short-term rental, or do I need a property management company in Houston?
You may self-manage. The ordinance recognizes the “operator” as either the owner or an authorized agent (e.g., a property manager). You must simply designate and maintain a 24-hour emergency contact person authorized to respond within one hour of notification.
12. What are the insurance requirements for rentals in Houston?
There is no requirement under the ordinance to purchase or provide proof of STR-specific insurance.
For comprehensive coverage, hosts should consider a short-term rental or landlord insurance policy, which typically includes property and liability coverage tailored to the unique risks of STRs.
13. Are there any local rules regarding hosting platforms (e.g., Airbnb, Vrbo) in Houston?
Yes. Platforms must:
- Notify all hosts that a valid STR Certificate of Registration is required;
- Require the host to include the certificate number in every public listing; and
- Remove any non-compliant listing within ten business days of receiving notice from the City .
14. What are the inspection requirements for STRs in Houston?
The ordinance does not establish any mandatory STR-specific inspections. However, STR properties remain subject to inspections under the applicable Construction and Fire Codes and other city codes as necessary to enforce compliance.
15. Are there any neighborhood-specific restrictions for STRs in Houston?
No. The regulations apply uniformly across all neighborhoods and zoning districts within the Houston city limits.
16. Is there a cap on the number of STR permits issued in Houston?
No. There is no limit on the number of Certificates of Registration that may be issued by the City, nor on how many STRs an individual may operate; each unit simply requires its own certificate.
17. What parking requirements exist for STRs in Houston?
While the ordinance does not mandate a minimum number of parking spaces, all public listings or advertisements of an STR must state the number of off-street parking spaces available.
