Georgetown, TX Short-Term Rentals: Permit Requirements (2026)

Under Chapter 6.70 of the Georgetown Code of Ordinances, every short-term rental inside the city limits must obtain a valid city permit before operating. The City defines a short-term rental as the use of a residential unit for a tenancy of 30 or fewer consecutive calendar days for a fee, which covers entire homes as well as accessory units such as garage apartments and backyard cottages listed on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway. The ordinance was approved by City Council on September 24, 2024, and the program became effective November 1, 2024. Applicants register and pay entirely online. Generally one address is allowed per STR permit unless an exception is granted. After approval, operators must post the permit conspicuously at the property, notify nearby residents, and provide each occupant an informational brochure listing contact details, occupancy limits, parking restrictions, noise rules, and emergency numbers. The City describes enforcement as 'low to moderate,' centered on annual permit registration and hotel occupancy tax collection rather than routine inspections; no pre-permit inspection is required. Operating an unpermitted STR, or violating program rules, can lead to code-enforcement action and revocation of the permit.