Overview: STR Status in Cleburne, TX

Short-term rentals are allowed in Cleburne, Texas. However, it is important to note that as of the most recent information available, Cleburne does not have specific local ordinances or laws governing short-term rentals like Airbnb. This means that property owners looking to rent out their homes on platforms like Airbnb are generally subject to the same regulations as other residential properties, such as zoning laws and homeowners association rules, if applicable.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Cleburne

1. Property Selection and Zoning Compliance

• Research zoning restrictions in Cleburne to ensure your property can legally be used for short-term rentals
• Review homeowners association rules if applicable, as these may impose additional restrictions
• Consider the property's location relative to amenities, attractions, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, which drives tourism to the area

2. Business Registration

• Register your business with appropriate local and state authorities
• Obtain any required business licenses (note that some Texas cities require business licenses for STRs)
• Get a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes

3. Tax Registration

• Register for Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) - This is a state requirement for all short-term rentals in Texas
• Set up systems to collect and remit applicable taxes
• Establish monthly reporting procedures even when no rentals occur

4. Property Preparation

• Ensure the property meets minimum maintenance standards under Cleburne's adopted International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)
• Install required safety equipment (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers)
• Create comprehensive house rules and guest information packages
• Establish cleaning and maintenance protocols

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Local Requirements

Since Cleburne doesn't have specific STR ordinances, local requirements are minimal:

• Business License (if required by local business regulations)
• Property Registration (for rental properties under IPMC)
• Compliance with IPMC Standards

State-Level Requirements

• Hotel Occupancy Tax Registration with Texas Comptroller
• Monthly HOT Reports and Payments
• Federal EIN
• Proof of Insurance (recommended for liability coverage)

Documents You'll Need

• Personal identification
• Federal EIN
• Property ownership documentation
• Proof of primary residence (if claiming any exemptions)
• Insurance documentation
• Floor plans and property sketches
• Local contact information

Specific Regulations: City, County, and State Level

City of Cleburne - Property Maintenance Requirements

Cleburne has adopted the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), which applies to all rental properties including short-term rentals:

Key Requirements:

• Heat and Air Conditioning: Must be installed to meet minimum/maximum temperature requirements
• Utility Services: Water, electrical, sewer, heat and air may only be discontinued for temporary repairs (regardless of rent payment status)
• Property Maintenance: Must maintain weather-tight exterior including roofs, doors, windows, exterior siding, flashing and trim
• Grass and Weeds: Cannot exceed eight (8) inches in height on residential property
• Vehicle Restrictions:
  • All vehicles must be registered and operable
  • Heavy load vehicles, vehicles with more than two axles, or cargo transport vehicles are prohibited on residential properties
  • Parking on unimproved surfaces (grass) is prohibited
• Signage: Any sign in right-of-way (including garage sale, for sale, or business signs) is illegal and results in $500 fine per sign

Negligent Property Program

• Properties with three or more documented violations in a 12-month period are deemed "negligent properties"
• Must pay $100 annual registration fee
• Subject to re-inspection for violation correction
• Remain in program for minimum 24 months from compliance certificate issuance

State of Texas Requirements

Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT)

• 6% state hotel occupancy tax on all rentals of less than 30 consecutive days
• Must collect from guests and remit to Texas Comptroller
• Monthly reporting required even when no rental activity occurs
• Failure to comply can result in penalties and interest

General Property Requirements

• Compliance with all applicable building and safety codes
• Proper insurance coverage
• Adherence to noise ordinances and disturbance regulations
• Compliance with ADA requirements if applicable

Johnson County Level

No specific county-level short-term rental regulations were identified in the provided content. County requirements would typically relate to:

• Property taxes
• Building permits for renovations
• Health department regulations for pools or spas

State-Level STR Regulations (Texas Context)

Important: Texas does not have statewide short-term rental regulations, but state law does not restrict local authorities from introducing their own rules. Investors should monitor for potential future local ordinances.

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Cleburne - Code Enforcement

• Phone: (817) 645-0977
• Email: code.enforcement@cleburne.net
• Fire Marshal's Office: (817) 645-0968
• Fire Marshal Email: fire@cleburne.net
• Address: 10 N Robinson St • PO Box 677 • Cleburne, Texas 76033
• Main Phone: 817-645-0900
• Website: www.cleburne.net

Texas Comptroller - Hotel Occupancy Tax

• Website: comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/hotel/
• Phone: Contact state offices for current HOT reporting requirements

Cleburne Code Resources

• Code Website: Cleburnecode.org
• ADA/EOE/ADEA: TDD 800-735-2989

Links to Source Pages

• Cleburne IPMC FAQ and Tenant/Renter Information
• Checkmate Rentals - Cleburne Texas Airbnb Management
• Texas Hotel & Lodging Association - STR Update 2018
• SummerOS - Texas Short Term Rental Laws

Important Considerations for Investors

1. Monitor Local Developments: While Cleburne currently has no specific STR ordinances, this could change. Stay informed about potential future regulations.

2. IPMC Compliance: The International Property Maintenance Code requirements are extensive and apply to all rental properties. Ensure full compliance before operating.

3. Tax Obligations: State hotel occupancy tax requirements are strict and penalties for non-compliance can be significant.

4. Insurance: Adequate liability coverage is essential given the transient nature of STR guests.

5. Neighborhood Relations: Without specific STR regulations, maintaining good relationships with neighbors becomes crucial for long-term success.

6. Market Positioning: Cleburne's proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and attractions like Cleburne State Park and Lake Pat Cleburne provide tourism opportunities, though the market is relatively modest compared to major Texas cities.

This regulatory environment, while currently permissive, requires diligent compliance with existing property maintenance codes and state tax obligations to operate successfully and avoid penalties.