Dallas vs Houston
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Dallas, TX and Houston, TX?
Dallas has fewer restrictions than Houston.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas City Code Chapter 42B requires STR operators to maintain liability insurance as part of the registration process. Operators must demonstrate proof of insurance when registering through the MUNIRevs online portal. The 2023 ordinance requires annual registration renewal including updated insurance documentation. Enforcement of these requirements is currently stayed by court injunction.
View full Dallas rules →Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston's STR ordinance requires operators to maintain a $1 million liability insurance policy during any period the rental property is available for booking. This is one of the strictest insurance mandates for STRs among major US cities.
View full Houston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 42B, Sec. 42B-5 and 42B-6 | Houston Code Ch. 28, Art. XXIII |
| Registration Portal | dallas.munirevs.com | - |
| Renewal | Annual | - |
| Legal Status | Enforcement enjoined since Dec. 2023 | - |
| Insurance Minimum | - | $1 million liability policy |
| When Required | - | During any period property is available for booking |
| Additional Requirement | - | Annual human trafficking prevention training |
| Tax Obligation | - | Must collect and remit Houston HOT quarterly |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Do I need insurance to operate an STR in Dallas?
Chapter 42B requires proof of insurance as part of STR registration, though enforcement of the entire ordinance is currently stayed by court injunction.
How do I register my STR in Dallas?
Registration is done through the MUNIRevs portal at dallas.munirevs.com with a non-refundable fee, annual renewal, and proof of ownership and insurance.
Houston FAQ
How much insurance do Houston STR hosts need?
Houston requires STR operators to carry at least $1 million in commercial general liability insurance during any period the property is available for short-term rental.
Can my homeowner's insurance cover the STR requirement?
Standard homeowner's policies typically do not cover short-term rental activity. You will likely need a separate commercial general liability policy or a specialized STR insurance endorsement to meet Houston's $1 million requirement.
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