Corpus Christi, TX Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- How Set
- Based on floor plan submitted at registration
- Floor Plan Required
- Sleeping areas, max guests, egress routes
- Fire Safety
- Extinguishers required per fire code
- Changes
- Updated floor plan needed to modify capacity
- Penalty
- Up to $500 per violation for overcrowding
Summary
STR occupancy is set by the floor plan submitted during registration. Applicants must designate sleeping areas and maximum guest capacity. The limit is based on life safety and fire code requirements.
For purposes of the imposition of a hotel occupancy tax under this chapter, Chapter 351 or 352, or other law, 'hotel' includes a short-term rental. In this subsection, 'short-term rental' means the rental of all or part of a residential property to a person who is not a permanent resident under Section 156.101.
Full Breakdown
Corpus Christi determines STR occupancy limits through the registration application process. Operators must submit a floor plan that identifies all sleeping areas, the proposed maximum number of guests, evacuation routes, and fire extinguisher locations. The maximum capacity is reviewed against life safety and fire code standards for the dwelling. The city uses this information to verify adequate egress, fire safety equipment, and general habitability. Exceeding the approved occupancy listed on the permit can result in citations. The floor plan and guest maximum are part of the official STR registration record. If operators wish to change the approved occupancy, they must submit an updated floor plan for review. Events or gatherings that exceed the registered occupancy are a common source of complaints and enforcement actions.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding approved occupancy: up to $500 fine per violation. Repeat violations may lead to permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the maximum occupancy for my STR determined?
Can I change the approved occupancy later?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Corpus Christi
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Corpus Christi to another location·View the Texas short-term rentals overview
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