Universal City's Rental Property Rules: The Rules That Matter
If you live in Universal City or are thinking about moving there, rental property rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Universal City has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of rental property rules, and some of them might surprise you.
Just Cause Eviction
Universal City has no just-cause eviction ordinance. Texas Property Code Chapter 24 controls, allowing month-to-month terminations with 30 days written notice and no local reason requirement.
Key details: Just-cause required: No, at-will terminations allowed. Notice period: 30 days for month-to-month. Governing law: TX Property Code Chapter 24. Court: Bexar County JP Precinct 3. Retaliation banned: Yes, Prop Code 92.331.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The rules around just cause eviction in Universal City lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.
Rental Registration
Universal City does not require general rental property registration. Landlords must comply with Texas Property Code 92 habitability rules and standard building and occupancy codes.
Key details: Registration required: No citywide program. Habitability standard: TX Property Code 92. Smoke alarms: Required, landlord installed. Security devices: Deadbolts and window latches. Inspections: Complaint-driven only.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Universal City is more permissive than most cities when it comes to rental registration. That said, there are still limits.
Rent Control
Universal City has no rent control because Texas Local Government Code Section 214.902 preempts cities from enacting rent control unless the governor declares a housing emergency approved by the council.
Key details: Rent control: Prohibited by state law. Preemption statute: TX Local Gov 214.902. Emergency exception: Governor declaration only. Month-to-month notice: 30 days. Deposit return: 30 days.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Universal City is more permissive than most cities when it comes to rent control. That said, there are still limits.
The Bottom Line
Compared to many U.S. cities, Universal City gives residents more room on rental property rules. 3 of the 3 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.
Keep in mind that Universal City can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.