San Antonio, TX Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- UDC § 35-374.01; Ordinance 2024-06-13-0433
- Capacity Basis
- Based on habitable space, egress, and parking
- Plan Required
- Floor plan showing sleeping areas and max guests
- Fire Safety
- Evacuation routes and extinguisher locations required
- ADU Rule
- Owner must reside on-site if ADU is used as STR
Summary
San Antonio's STR ordinance (UDC § 35-374.01, updated by Ordinance 2024-06-13-0433) requires STR permit applications to specify maximum guest capacity, with sleeping areas and emergency evacuation routes detailed in submitted plans. The permit specifies the allowed number of guests based on habitable space, fire egress, and parking availability.
(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 v
Full Breakdown
San Antonio 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
How is STR occupancy determined in San Antonio?
Can I rent out my ADU as a short-term rental?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas short-term rentals overview
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Occupancy Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle occupancy limits.