Permit Requirements: Bellaire vs Pasadena
How do permit requirements rules compare between Bellaire, TX and Pasadena, TX?
Pasadena has fewer restrictions than Bellaire.
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 →Pasadena, TX
Harris County
Pasadena does not have a specific short-term rental ordinance at the city level. Texas state law under TX Tax Code Ch. 156 governs hotel occupancy tax. Property owners must comply with general zoning and nuisance ordinances. Pasadena is a non-zoned city relying on deed restrictions.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellaire | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Districts | STRs prohibited | - |
| Mixed-Use (CMU) | Permitted with annual permit | - |
| Inspection | Annual fire marshal required | - |
| Phase-In Deadline | May 16, 2026 | - |
| Contact | (713) 662-8222 Development Services | - |
| City STR Ordinance | - | None specific |
| State Hotel Tax | - | 6% (TX Tax Code Ch. 156) |
| Local Hotel Tax | - | 7% |
| Zoning Status | - | Non-zoned city |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit for an Airbnb in Pasadena TX?
Pasadena does not have a specific STR permit system. You must collect and remit state (6%) and local (7%) hotel occupancy taxes and comply with deed restrictions and nuisance codes.
Can my HOA block short-term rentals?
Yes. Pasadena relies on deed restrictions rather than zoning, so subdivision deed restrictions may prohibit or limit short-term rentals.
Compare other topics
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