Waco, TX Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)
Short-term rental permit rules in Waco, TX, also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration, list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Key Facts
- Registration
- Required
- Definition
- Under 30 consecutive days
- Hotel Tax
- Required
- Local Contact
- Required
Summary
Waco requires short-term rental operators to register with the city and obtain necessary permits before operating. STRs must comply with building, fire, and zoning codes.
Sec. 351.002. TAX AUTHORIZED. (a) A municipality by ordinance may impose a tax on a person who, under a lease, concession, permit, right of access, license, contract, or agreement, pays for the use or possession or for the right to the use or possession of a room that is in a hotel, costs $2 or more each day, and is ordinarily used for sleeping.(b) The price of a room in a hotel does not include the cost of food served by the hotel and the cost of personal services performed by the hotel for the person except for those services related to cleaning and readying the room for use or possession.(c) The tax does not apply to a person who is a permanent resident under Section 156.101 of this code. Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 191, Sec.
Full Breakdown
Waco regulates short-term rentals (stays under 30 consecutive days) through its zoning and permitting framework. Operators must register with the city and obtain applicable permits. Properties must meet all building code, fire safety, and health standards. The city's Development Services Department reviews applications. A local contact person available during guest stays is typically required. STR advertising without proper registration is a violation. The city collects hotel occupancy tax on all short-term rental stays.
Violations & Fines
Fines up to $500 per day of violation. City may issue cease-and-desist orders for unpermitted operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to rent my home on Airbnb in Waco?
Does Waco charge hotel tax on short-term rentals?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Waco
How Waco compares: Most Airbnb-Friendly Cities in America·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Waco to another location·View the Texas short-term rentals overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.