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DeSoto, TX Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Registration
Registration required for rentals
Fees
Annual fee applies
Inspections
Life-safety inspections periodic
Local Contact
Local contact required if owner out of area
Citations And
Citations and daily fines for non-compliance

Summary

DeSoto has implemented a rental property registration program to ensure rental dwellings meet safety and habitability standards. Owners of single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family units offered

Sec. 92.201. DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT. (a) A landlord shall disclose to a tenant, or to any government official or employee acting in an official capacity, according to this subchapter:(1) the name and either a street or post office box address of the holder of record title, according to the deed records in the county clerk's office, of the dwelling rented by the tenant or inquired about by the government official or employee acting in an official capacity; and(2) if an entity located off-site from the dwelling is primarily responsible for managing the dwelling, the name and street address of the management company.

Source: DeSoto Code ComplianceView official code

Full Breakdown

DeSoto has implemented a rental property registration program to ensure rental dwellings meet safety and habitability standards. Owners of single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family units offered for rent must register with the city, typically providing owner and local contact information (including a property manager with a DeSoto-area address if the owner lives outside the region), a list of rental units, and paying an annual registration fee. Registered rental properties are subject to periodic life-safety inspections covering smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms where gas appliances are present, electrical safety, plumbing, heating, window egress from bedrooms, and general property maintenance. Violations identified at inspection must be corrected within a specified time. Failure to register or correct violations can result in citations, daily administrative fines, and denial of a Certificate of Occupancy. Short-term rentals have separate registration requirements where permitted. Federal Fair Housing, lead-based paint disclosure for pre-1978 units, and Texas Property Code tenant protections apply on top of the local program.

Violations & Fines

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Desoto code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do DeSoto landlords have to register rental properties?
Yes. DeSoto has a rental registration program covering most residential rental units. Contact DeSoto Code Compliance or Development Services for current requirements and fees.
Does DeSoto inspect my rental property?
Periodic life-safety inspections are part of the rental registration program. Inspections verify smoke alarms, electrical safety, egress, and general habitability.
What happens if I don't register my DeSoto rental?
Unregistered rentals face citations, daily administrative fines, and may be denied a Certificate of Occupancy preventing legal rental operation.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in DeSoto

All DeSoto rules

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