San Antonio, TX Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)
Key Facts
- General Rental
- No citywide rental registration required
- STR Registration
- Required under UDC § 35-374.01
- Absentee Owners
- Registration required under Chapter 6
- Vacant Property
- Separate registration program exists
- Contact
- DSD Code Enforcement for compliance questions
Summary
San Antonio does not have a comprehensive rental property registration program for standard residential rentals. However, the city does require short-term rental registration through the STR permit system (UDC § 35-374.01). The Absentee Property Owner's Registration program under Chapter 6 applies to properties not occupied by the owner and ensures a local point of contact for code enforcement purposes.
(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.(b) Disclosure to a tenant under Subsection (a) must be made by:(1) giving the information in writing to the tenant
Full Breakdown
San Antonio may require rental property registration to track housing stock and ensure code compliance. Registered properties are subject to periodic inspections for fire safety, structural integrity, and habitability standards. Landlords must maintain current contact information on file. Registration fees are set by local ordinance per unit annually. Some jurisdictions require registration before renting any residential unit. Certificate of occupancy or rental license may be needed. Properties must pass inspection before initial rental and periodically thereafter. Lead paint disclosure required for pre-1978 buildings. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my rental property in San Antonio?
Is there a vacant property registration?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
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