Corpus Christi, TX Short-Term Rentals: Primary-Residence-Only Rule (2026)

Section 5-37 of the Code of Ordinances defines two short-term rental categories. A Type 1, owner-occupied, rental is a dwelling unit, or portion of one, occupied by the owner or by an operator under a valid lease with the owner's written permission; an accessory dwelling unit counts as owner-occupied if the primary residence on the same lot is occupied by the owner or a permitted operator. Critically, the owner or operator "shall make his or her legal residence on the same property," proven through a homestead exemption, voter registration, vehicle registration, or similar documentary evidence submitted with the permit application under Section 5-39.

A Type 2, non-owner-occupied, rental is any unit where neither the owner nor the operator lives on the property, and the city does not ban these or require a primary residence to run one. Instead, Section 5-43 caps Type 2 density in single-family residential districts at no more than 15 percent of the total residential units on a block face, to preserve neighborhood character. An operator who wants to exceed the cap can apply to the city manager or designee for a special exception, which requires a public hearing, mailed notice to property owners within 200 feet, and a $650 application fee; the city manager weighs current STR density, effect on neighborhood character, public safety, nuisance potential, and injury to neighboring property before granting it.

The distinction also affects renewal: under Section 5-40(b) a Type 2 permit automatically lapses for inactivity if the holder fails to report and pay hotel occupancy tax for more than six months.