Houston Now Requires Short-Term Rental Registration

Houston passed a short-term rental (STR) law in April 2025. Registration opened October 1, 2025. Enforcement began January 1, 2026. The annual fee is $275 per property. A short-term rental is any home rented for fewer than 30 days in a row.

Hosts must post a 24-hour emergency contact number. They must also complete human trafficking awareness training. Properties cannot be advertised as event venues. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO must take down listings for unregistered properties within 10 days of city notice. Fines for violations run $100 to $500 per day. This law only applies inside Houston city limits. Unincorporated Harris County has different rules. Check houstontx.gov/ara for current details.