Occupancy Limits: Katy vs Missouri City
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Katy, TX and Missouri City, TX?
Katy has fewer restrictions than Missouri City.
Katy, TX
Fort Bend County
Fort Bend County imposes no STR-specific occupancy limits in unincorporated areas. Texas counties lack general police power to regulate STRs under Local Gov't Code Ch. 233. Practical limits derive from International Residential Code bedroom/egress rules and on-site septic system capacity (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality OSSF rules in 30 TAC Ch. 285).
View full Katy rules →Missouri City, TX
Fort Bend County
Missouri City limits residential occupancy to families plus a small number of unrelated persons, restricting how many guests a short-term rental may host.
View full Missouri City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Katy | Missouri City |
|---|---|---|
| County STR Ordinance | None | - |
| County Occupancy Cap | Not set | - |
| Authority Limit | Local Gov't Code Ch. 233 | - |
| Septic Sizing | 30 TAC §285.91 (by bedroom) | - |
| City Rules Apply | Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond | - |
| Definition | - | Single housekeeping unit |
| Unrelated cap | - | Limited group only |
| Standard | - | Bedrooms and square footage |
| Code | - | Zoning Appendix A |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Katy FAQ
Does Fort Bend County set an occupancy limit for Airbnbs?
No. Unincorporated Fort Bend County has no STR ordinance and no county-imposed guest cap. Limits come from IRC bedroom/egress rules, septic system capacity, and any deed restrictions or HOA covenants on your property.
Do I need an STR permit in unincorporated Fort Bend County?
No. The county does not require STR registration or permits. You must register with the Texas Comptroller for the 6% state HOT and remit the Fort Bend County 7% HOT (effective Oct 1, 2024) for stays under 30 days. Cities within the county set their own STR rules.
Missouri City FAQ
How many guests can stay?
The maximum depends on bedrooms and square footage under city housing standards, plus the city's family definition limiting unrelated occupants.
Are children counted in occupancy?
Local property maintenance standards count all occupants, though specific bedroom and square-foot ratios determine the lawful maximum.
Compare other topics
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