Short-term rental permit rules in Bellaire, TX — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Bellaire adopted a strict short-term rental ordinance in late 2025 that prohibits STRs of 30 days or fewer in all residential zoning districts. STRs are only permitted in certain mixed-use areas with an annual permit, fire marshal inspection, and compliance with occupancy and parking requirements. Existing operators had until May 16, 2026 to wind down.
The Bellaire City Council determined that short-term rentals are incompatible with residential neighborhoods and adopted an ordinance banning them in residential districts. The ban applies to all platforms including Airbnb, VRBO, and similar services. Properties in the Corridor Mixed Use (CMU) zoning district may obtain an STR permit subject to annual fire marshal inspections, life-safety equipment requirements, occupancy limits based on bedroom count, and parking requirements based on driveway and garage capacity. The ordinance makes enforcement applicable to property owners, guests, property managers, and listing platforms alike. The 180-day phase-in period from adoption means existing residential operators must cease operations by May 16, 2026. Contact Development Services at (713) 662-8222 for permit questions.
Operating an STR in a residential district or without a valid permit in mixed-use areas is a violation with fines up to $500 per day. Each day of operation constitutes a separate offense. The city may pursue enforcement against platforms listing unpermitted Bellaire properties.
Bellaire, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle permit requirements.
See how Bellaire's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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