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

The City of Rowlett regulates short-term rentals (defined as a residential dwelling rented wholly or partly for a fee for periods of less than 30 consecutive days) under Article XI, Division 4 of its Code of Ordinances, adopted by Ordinance No. 007-23 on March 7, 2023 and administered through the city's Rental Housing Standards Program. Section 10-425 states that no person may operate a short-term rental, or offer one for rent, lease, or occupancy, without first applying for and being approved for an annual permit from the city. The permit application must be submitted on a city form and accompanied by a non-refundable fee set in the master fee schedule. Applicants must supply a floor plan, a parking plan, and an emergency evacuation plan, and must notify all residential property owners within a 200-foot radius at the time of filing. An initial inspection is conducted prior to occupancy (Sec. 10-426), and a separate guest safety information sheet must be posted inside the unit (Sec. 10-428). The permit expires January 31 each year, renewals must be filed 30 days before expiration, and the permit is not transferable to another owner, operator, or location. The city refreshed the program with an updated short-term rental ordinance effective April 1, 2025.