Permit Requirements: Denton vs Little Elm
How do permit requirements rules compare between Denton, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Denton and Little Elm have similar restriction levels.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton requires STR registration at $100/year via the Deckard platform (str.deckard.com). Effective January 1, 2025, the city caps total certificates at 1,000 citywide, limits parcels to 2 certificates each, and requires 100-ft minimum separation between STRs in single-family residential zones. Property inspection required after approval. All advertisements must display the permit number.
View full Denton rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Little Elm requires mandatory annual registration before listing or operating any short-term rental property. Registration costs $200 per year with a $400 late fee. Advertising a property without registration is a violation. The ordinance was established May 5, 2020 under Ordinance 1673 and applies to any residential property rented for fewer than 30 days.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | $100/year | - |
| Portal | str.deckard.com | - |
| Citywide Cap | 1,000 certificates | - |
| Separation | 100 ft min between STRs (SF residential) | - |
| Max per Parcel | 2 certificates | - |
| Registration Fee | - | $200/year |
| Late Fee | - | $400 |
| Definition | - | Under 30-day rental |
| Adopted | - | May 5, 2020 (Ord. 1673) |
| Renewal | - | Annual |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
How do I register my short-term rental in Denton?
Apply online at str.deckard.com/tx-denton-city_of_denton/. The fee is $100 per year. After approval, a city inspector will visit the property before you can begin hosting guests.
Is there a waitlist if the 1,000 certificate cap is reached?
The ordinance establishes a citywide cap of 1,000 registration certificates but does not currently describe a formal waitlist process. Contact Development Services at (940) 349-8541 for current availability.
Do I need to live in the property to operate an STR?
No, but you must designate a local emergency contact available within 30 minutes of the property during all guest stays. The contact info is shared with neighbors within 100 feet.
Little Elm FAQ
Do I need a permit to list on Airbnb in Little Elm?
Yes. Annual registration ($200) is mandatory before listing or operating any short-term rental. Advertising without registration is a violation under Ordinance 1673.
What happens if I operate without registering?
Progressive enforcement applies: first offense is a warning, second offense is a 6-month reapplication ban, third is a 1-year ban, and the fourth offense results in a permanent reapplication ban.
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