After registration, Houston still requires quarterly HOT tax filings, annual renewal, ongoing noise and safety compliance, and keeping up with rule changes. Our Core package handles all of this automatically — you'll never miss a deadline, filing, or new requirement.
| DIY | With Lodge Compliance | |
|---|---|---|
| Time Investment | 6–8 hours | 5 minutes ↓ Save 6+ hours |
| Documents Required | You gather 8+ items manually | We collect everything for you |
| City Portal Navigation | You figure it out alone | We do it for you |
| HOT Tax Registration | 3 separate filings across jurisdictions | We complete all 3 simultaneously |
| Risk of Rejection | High — errors cause delays | Zero — we guarantee approval |
| Total Cost | $308.10 city fee only | $508.09 total ($199.99 service + city fee) |
Every STR operator in Houston must obtain a City-issued STR Registration Certificate. Each unit requires its own registration — there is no blanket registration for multiple properties.
Short-term rentals in Houston are fully legal under the city's new registration-based framework, adopted on April 16, 2025. Registration for hosts begins October 1, 2025, with enforcement starting January 1, 2026. The maximum allowable stay is 29 consecutive days; the minimum stay requirement is one night. This definition is how Houston distinguishes short-term rentals from traditional long-term housing.
Every STR operator in Houston must obtain a City-issued STR Registration Certificate. Each unit requires its own registration — there is no blanket registration for multiple properties.
Before applying, you'll need to gather these items. (Or let us handle all of it for $199.99.)
All STR operators must collect and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) at state, city, and county levels.
| Jurisdiction | Rate | Register At |
|---|---|---|
| Texas State HOT | 6% | TX Comptroller |
| City of Houston HOT | 7% | Houston First |
| Harris County HOT | 2% | Harris County |
| Harris County Sports Authority | 2% | — |
| Total (within City of Houston) | 17% | — |
HOT reports are filed quarterly. Due dates:
STRs are allowed in all zoning districts across Houston — there are no zoning restrictions on STR operations.
Permitted:
Not permitted as STRs:
No property inspection is required during registration, but you must maintain compliance with these life-safety standards:
All STR properties must comply with Chapter 30 of the Houston Noise Ordinance, covering animals, vehicles, amplified music, and gatherings.
Every listing on Airbnb, Vrbo, or any platform must include:
You must post an emergency contact's name and phone number visibly inside the rental. The contact must:
Neighbor notification is not legally required in Houston, but it is strongly encouraged. Neighbors can report STR noise or nuisance complaints at any time by calling 713-636-5365.
Guest parking rules may vary by location. The City may impose parking limits based on neighborhood conditions, street congestion, or safety concerns. Check with your local area before hosting.
All STR hosts must manage garbage, solid waste, and yard debris responsibly. Place trash and recycling in designated containers following the City of Houston's official collection schedule. Do not leave bags or loose items outside bins.
For large items (tires, tree trimmings), use approved city collection services or authorized disposal facilities.
Advertising or hosting events or parties at your STR is strictly prohibited. All listings must clearly display the City-issued STR registration number.
This includes weddings, receptions, reunions, bachelor/bachelorette parties, concerts, or any similar gatherings.