Occupancy Limits: Dallas vs DeSoto
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Dallas, TX and DeSoto, TX?
DeSoto has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas City Code Chapter 42B, Sec. 42B-12 limits short-term rental occupancy to a maximum of three persons per bedroom with a total cap of 12 guests. The STR ordinance was adopted in June 2023 but enforcement was blocked by a court injunction in December 2023. The injunction remains in effect as of 2025 while legal challenges proceed through Texas courts.
View full Dallas rules →DeSoto, TX
Dallas County
DeSoto caps STR occupancy at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, with a maximum of 10 overnight guests per unit and no more than 20 persons present for events.
View full DeSoto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | DeSoto |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 42B, Sec. 42B-12 | - |
| Per Bedroom | 3 persons maximum | 2 overnight |
| Total Cap | 12 guests maximum | - |
| Legal Status | Enforcement enjoined since Dec. 2023 | - |
| Minimum Stay | 2-night minimum | - |
| Overnight Cap | - | 10 total |
| Daytime Cap | - | 20 persons |
| Events | - | Special Permit required |
| Posting | - | Inside unit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Are Dallas STR occupancy limits currently enforced?
Not at this time. A court injunction issued December 2023 blocks enforcement of Chapter 42B. The City has petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to review the case.
What is the maximum number of guests in a Dallas STR?
Chapter 42B limits occupancy to three persons per bedroom with a maximum of 12 guests total, though enforcement is currently stayed.
DeSoto FAQ
Can I host a wedding at my DeSoto STR?
Not without a Special Event Permit and, in many cases, a Conditional Use Permit. Standard STR permits do not authorize commercial events.
Do children count toward the cap?
Children under 2 are excluded. Children 2 and older count as full occupants.
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