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Wichita Falls, TX Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Short-term rental permit rules in Wichita Falls, TX, also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration, list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.

Key Facts

Zoning
Must be in permitted zone
Taxes
Hotel occupancy tax applies
Contact
Planning Department for requirements
Enforcement
Code Compliance Division

Summary

Wichita Falls regulates short-term rentals through its zoning ordinance. STR operators should verify their property's zoning allows short-term rental use and comply with applicable registration and tax requirements.

Sec. 351.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:(1) "Municipality" includes any incorporated city, town, or village.(2) "Convention center facilities" or "convention center complex" means facilities that are primarily used to host conventions and meetings. The term means civic centers, civic center buildings, auditoriums, exhibition halls, and coliseums that are owned by the municipality or other governmental entity or that are managed in whole or part by the municipality. In a municipality with a population of 1.5 million or more, "convention center facilities" or "convention center complex" means civic centers, civic center buildings, auditoriums, exhibition halls, and coliseums that are owned by the municipality or other governmental en

Source: Wichita Falls Zoning OrdinanceView official code

Full Breakdown

Short-term rental operations in Wichita Falls are subject to zoning regulations. Properties must be in zones that permit transient lodging or obtain appropriate approvals. Operators are responsible for collecting and remitting hotel occupancy taxes. The city's zoning ordinance governs where STRs may operate, and properties in single-family residential zones may face restrictions. Operators should contact the Planning Department for current requirements.

Violations & Fines

Operating an STR in a zone that does not permit transient lodging may result in code enforcement action and orders to cease operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I operate an Airbnb in Wichita Falls?
STR operations are subject to zoning regulations. Contact the Planning Department to verify your property's zoning allows short-term rentals.
Do I need a permit for a short-term rental in Wichita Falls?
Check with the city's Planning Department regarding current STR requirements. Zoning compliance and hotel occupancy tax registration are needed.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Wichita Falls

All Wichita Falls rules

How Wichita Falls compares: Most Airbnb-Friendly Cities in America·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Wichita Falls to another location·View the Texas short-term rentals overview

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