Occupancy Limits: Dallas vs Richardson
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Dallas, TX and Richardson, TX?
Richardson 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 →Richardson, TX
Dallas County
Richardson does not have a specific short-term rental occupancy limit ordinance. General building and fire code occupancy limits apply based on the size of the dwelling. The International Building Code and International Fire Code, as adopted by the city, govern maximum occupancy.
View full Richardson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Richardson |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| STR-Specific Limit | - | None enacted |
| Building Code | - | IBC 2021 Edition (Sec. 8-27) |
| Fire Code | - | IFC 2021 Edition (Sec. 8-27) |
| State Law | - | HB 2127 limits local STR regulation |
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.
Richardson FAQ
Is there an occupancy limit for Airbnb in Richardson?
Richardson does not have STR-specific occupancy limits. General building and fire code standards apply based on the property's size and safety features.
Can Texas cities limit STR occupancy?
Texas HB 2127 (2023) restricts municipal authority over certain STR regulations. Cities retain authority over health, safety, and nuisance issues.
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