Permit Requirements: Baytown vs Bellaire
How do permit requirements rules compare between Baytown, TX and Bellaire, TX?
Baytown has fewer restrictions than Bellaire.
Baytown, TX
Harris County
Baytown does not have a dedicated short-term rental ordinance or permit requirement as of 2024. Texas state law (HB 2127, effective September 2023) preempts cities from regulating short-term rentals more restrictively than state law allows. Properties used for short-term rental through Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms must comply with general property maintenance codes and hotel occupancy tax requirements.
View full Baytown rules →Bellaire, TX
Harris County
Bellaire adopted a strict short-term rental ordinance in late 2025 that prohibits STRs of 30 days or fewer in all residential zoning districts. STRs are only permitted in certain mixed-use areas with an annual permit, fire marshal inspection, and compliance with occupancy and parking requirements. Existing operators had until May 16, 2026 to wind down.
View full Bellaire rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Baytown | Bellaire |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Not required | - |
| State Law | HB 2127 preempts local STR regulation | - |
| State Tax | 6% hotel occupancy tax required | - |
| Registration | Texas Comptroller for tax collection | - |
| Contact | (281) 420-6530 Planning | (713) 662-8222 Development Services |
| Residential Districts | - | STRs prohibited |
| Mixed-Use (CMU) | - | Permitted with annual permit |
| Inspection | - | Annual fire marshal required |
| Phase-In Deadline | - | May 16, 2026 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Baytown FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my Baytown property on Airbnb?
No. Baytown does not require a specific short-term rental permit. However, you must register with the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit hotel occupancy taxes and comply with all property maintenance codes.
Does Texas law allow Baytown to regulate short-term rentals?
Texas HB 2127, effective September 2023, significantly limits municipal authority to regulate STRs. Baytown cannot impose registration requirements or operational restrictions beyond what state law allows.
What taxes do I owe on short-term rental income in Baytown?
You must collect and remit a 6% state hotel occupancy tax to the Texas Comptroller. Check with the Baytown Finance Department about any applicable local hotel occupancy tax as well.
Bellaire FAQ
Are Airbnbs allowed in Bellaire TX?
No, short-term rentals of 30 days or fewer are prohibited in all residential zoning districts in Bellaire. Only properties in the Corridor Mixed Use (CMU) district may obtain an STR permit, subject to annual inspections and occupancy/parking requirements.
When does Bellaire's STR ban take effect?
The ordinance was adopted in late 2025 with a 180-day phase-in period. Existing operators must cease STR activity in residential areas by May 16, 2026.
Can I do a long-term rental instead in Bellaire?
Yes. Rentals of more than 30 days are not subject to the STR ordinance. Standard landlord-tenant laws and property maintenance codes apply to long-term rentals in all zoning districts.
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