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Dallas, TX Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

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

Key Facts

Code Section
Ch. 42B, Sec. 42B-12
Per Bedroom
3 persons maximum
Total Cap
12 guests maximum
Legal Status
Enforcement enjoined since Dec. 2023
Minimum Stay
2-night minimum

Summary

Dallas City Code Chapter 42B, Sec. 42B-12 limits short-term rental occupancy to a maximum of three persons per bedroom with a total cap of 12 guests. The STR ordinance was adopted in June 2023 but enforcement was blocked by a court injunction in December 2023. The injunction remains in effect as of 2025 while legal challenges proceed through Texas courts.

Sec. 92.010. OCCUPANCY LIMITS. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), the maximum number of adults that a landlord may allow to occupy a dwelling is three times the number of bedrooms in the dwelling.(b) A landlord may allow an occupancy rate of more than three adult tenants per bedroom:(1) to the extent that the landlord is required by a state or federal fair housing law to allow a higher occupancy rate; or(2) if an adult whose occupancy causes a violation of Subsection (a) is seeking temporary sanctuary from family violence, as defined by Section 71.004, Family Code, for a period that does not exceed one month.(c) An individual who owns or leases a dwelling within 3,000 feet of a dwelling as to which a landlord has violated this section, or a governmental entity or civic associatio...

Source: Dallas City Code Sec. 42B-12 – Operation of Short-Term Rental (Occupancy Limits)View official code

Full Breakdown

Dallas regulates short-term rental occupancy to prevent overcrowding and nuisance complaints. Maximum occupancy is typically set at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, though local codes vary. Rental listings must accurately state maximum occupancy. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guest compliance. Exceeding occupancy limits may result in permit revocation. Sleeping in garages, tents, or vehicles on the property is generally prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dallas STR occupancy limits currently enforced?
Not at this time. A court injunction issued December 2023 blocks enforcement of Chapter 42B. The City has petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to review the case.
What is the maximum number of guests in a Dallas STR?
Chapter 42B limits occupancy to three persons per bedroom with a maximum of 12 guests total, though enforcement is currently stayed.

Sources & Official References

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Occupancy Limits in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Dallas County handle occupancy limits.

Irving, TX
Light Restrictions
Mesquite, TX
Light Restrictions
Carrollton, TX
Some Restrictions
Grand Prairie, TX
Some Restrictions
Cedar Hill, TX
Few Restrictions
Garland, TX
Few Restrictions