Written by: Sanjin Hadziomerovic
Comprehensive FAQs for Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations in Galveston, TX
Investing in short-term rental (STR) properties requires an in-depth understanding of local regulations. Below is a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for STR operators and investors to help you navigate the rules in Galveston, TX and stay compliant while maximizing profitability.
1. What is considered a short-term rental in Galveston, TX?
Any dwelling unit—or portion thereof—rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days is classified as a Short-Term Rental subject to registration and Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) requirements under Ordinance 15-012 galvestontx.gov.
2. Do I need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Galveston, TX?
Yes. All STR properties must register with the Galveston Park Board via the Deckard portal and pay a $250 registration fee for new listings or when switching from management company to independent management galvestontx.gov.
3. What are the zoning laws for STRs in Galveston, TX?
Short-term rentals are permitted in all zoning districts on the island except R-0. To confirm your property’s zoning classification, consult Article 2 of the Land Development Regulations galvestontx.gov.
4. Are there occupancy limits for short-term rentals in Galveston, TX?
Occupancy limits are not specified in the STR ordinance or on the City’s STR page. Best practice is to adhere to applicable building- and fire-safety code occupancy standards when determining your maximum guest count.
5. What taxes are short-term rental hosts required to pay in Galveston, TX?
Hosts must collect and remit a 9 % Hotel Occupancy Tax on gross rental revenues (including cleaning, pet, damage fees, etc.) to the Park Board on a monthly or quarterly basis. Reports are due by the 20th of the month following the reporting period; late or missing reports incur a $25 fine galvestontx.gov.
6. What are the safety and health requirements for STR properties in Galveston, TX?
The STR ordinance does not prescribe specific safety or health inspections beyond standard city codes. Best practice is to ensure functional smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, secure fencing/pool barriers (if applicable), and compliance with plumbing and mechanical regulations.
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7. How are noise and nuisance complaints handled in Galveston, TX?
Noise and nuisance enforcement follow the City’s general code-enforcement procedures. Hosts should provide a local 24-hour contact and establish a clear guest-conduct policy to address neighborhood complaints promptly.
8. Can I manage multiple short-term rental properties in Galveston, TX?
Yes. Each property requires its own registration and $250 fee. Register each address separately through the Deckard portal galvestontx.gov.
9. What are the penalties for non-compliance with STR regulations in Galveston, TX?
Failure to register or remit HOT as required is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to $500 per day, plus late payment penalties and interest. Delinquent or unregistered properties may face legal action galvestontx.gov.
10. Are there any updates or changes to STR regulations I should be aware of in Galveston, TX?
Ordinance 15-012, which established the current STR registration and HOT collection framework, remains in effect. No subsequent amendments specific to short-term rentals are listed on the City’s STR pages.
11. Can I self-manage my short-term rental in Galveston, TX?
Yes. Owners may self-manage without a third-party management company. Registration and HOT remittance responsibilities rest with the property owner or designated agent.
12. What are the insurance requirements for short-term rentals in Galveston, TX?
Insurance requirements are not addressed in the STR ordinance or on the City’s STR page. Best practice is to carry at least $1 million in liability coverage and property insurance that explicitly covers short-term rental activity.
13. Are there any local rules regarding hosting platforms (e.g., Airbnb, Vrbo) in Galveston, TX?
Platforms must remove listings without a valid STR registration upon City or Park Board notification. Hosts should display their registration number in all public listings to avoid delisting.
14. What are the inspection requirements for STRs in Galveston, TX?
No routine STR-specific inspections are mandated. Properties are inspected under standard city building, fire, and sanitation codes upon complaint or as part of unrelated permitting activities.
15. Are there any neighborhood-specific restrictions for STRs in Galveston, TX?
Yes. STRs are prohibited in the R-0 zoning district. No other neighborhood or overlay restrictions are specified in the STR ordinance.
16. Is there a cap on the number of STR permits issued in Galveston, TX?
No numerical cap exists. All qualifying properties outside R-0 may register so long as they meet the ordinance’s requirements.
17. What parking requirements exist for STRs in Galveston, TX?
Parking requirements are governed by each property’s zoning district under the City’s off-street parking standards. There are no additional STR-specific parking mandates.
