When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it’s important for you to understand the laws in your city. As a platform and marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide some useful links that may help you better understand laws and regulations in the City of Houston. This list is not exhaustive, but it should give you a good start in understanding your local laws.
Visit Houston’s Short-Term Rental (STR) Registration page for the latest information about the application process and other requirements.
On April 16, 2025, the Houston City Council approved a short-term rental ordinance requiring all STR owners and operators to obtain a certificate of registration. The registration system is scheduled to launch on October 1, 2025, with enforcement beginning April 1, 2026.
Key points include:
For more information, please contact Houston’s Administration & Regulatory Affairs Department.
Houston requires a certificate of registration to operate a short-term rental. The application carries a $275 non-refundable registration fee and a $33.10 administrative fee per registration application. Once issued, the registration number must be included in your Airbnb listing. More details can be found on Houston’s STR Registration portal.
As a host, you need to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, including leases, co-op rules, HOA rules, or other rules established by tenant organizations. You should be able to find out more by contacting your housing authority (such as a community council) or landlord. Your lease (or other contract) might also have specific details.
By partnering with local officials, Airbnb is committed to showing how hosting can benefit your community. We will continue to advocate for changes that support everyday people and opportunities to host in a community setting.