Dallas vs Houston
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Dallas, TX and Houston, TX?
Houston 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 →Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston's 2025 STR ordinance (Chapter 28, Art. XXIII) regulates short-term rentals citywide. The ordinance defines STRs as dwellings rented for less than 30 consecutive days and requires a certificate of registration. Specific occupancy caps are tied to the property's capacity as determined during registration.
View full Houston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 42B, Sec. 42B-12 | - |
| Per Bedroom | 3 persons maximum | - |
| Total Cap | 12 guests maximum | - |
| Legal Status | Enforcement enjoined since Dec. 2023 | - |
| Minimum Stay | 2-night minimum | - |
| Ordinance | - | Houston Code Ch. 28, Art. XXIII (adopted April 2025) |
| Registration Fee | - | $275 + $33.10 admin fee, renewed annually |
| Events | - | Special events at STRs prohibited |
| Enforcement Start | - | January 1, 2026 |
| Penalty | - | $100-$500/day for unregistered operation |
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.
Houston FAQ
Does Houston have a maximum occupancy for short-term rentals?
The ordinance does not set a specific guest count but requires compliance with building code occupancy limits. STRs may not host special events or be used as event venues.
When did Houston start regulating short-term rentals?
Houston City Council approved the STR ordinance in April 2025, with enforcement beginning January 1, 2026. Registration opened October 1, 2025.
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