Source-checked permit guide · Austin, TX
Yes. Austin requires an operating license for a residential unit or accessory dwelling rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days, subject to the city's property-type and operating rules.
Last reviewed September 20, 2026 · Official source: City of Austin
At a glance
Austin lists a nonrefundable $789 operating-license fee and a $47.30 notification fee, for a published new-license total of $836.30. Applicants should confirm renewal charges separately.
As published by City of Austin · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
City Code Section 4-23-33 requires a local contact in the Austin metropolitan area who can respond to emergencies within two hours. The contact duty continues during rental activity.
As published by City of Austin · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
The city says updated platform requirements and enforcement took effect July 1, 2026. Hosts should use the current Development Services guidance instead of relying on older summaries.
As published by City of Austin · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
Address-level verification
This summary was checked against materials published by City of Austin. Read the official program page and ask Development Services Department, Code Compliance to confirm the current rule for the specific property.
Not legal advice. This page summarizes a primary government source reviewed on September 20, 2026; it is not a permit decision or a guarantee that the source remains current. Requirements can vary by address, zoning, ownership, and proposed use. Confirm the current rule with City of Austin and appropriate counsel before buying, listing, advising, or operating. The STR Permit Explainer can help prepare a research checklist.
FAQ
Yes. Austin requires an operating license for a residential unit or accessory dwelling rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days, subject to the city's property-type and operating rules. Confirm the current rule for the exact address and proposed use with City of Austin before relying on this summary.
Short-Term Rental operating license. The responsible office is Development Services Department, Code Compliance. The city publishes a $836.30 new-license total: a $789 nonrefundable operating-license fee plus a $47.30 notification fee.
Austin City Code, Chapter 4-23, including Sections 4-23-33, 4-23-34, and 4-23-41(E). Open the official source and confirm any amendments, effective dates, zoning conditions, and address-specific requirements.
No. This source-checked summary and RealtrAI's STR Permit Explainer are research aids, not legal advice or a current-rule guarantee. Confirm the requirements with City of Austin and qualified counsel.
The STR Permit Explainer creates an informational draft. Verify every current rule with the official jurisdiction and qualified counsel.
