Overview: STR Allowability in Del Rio, TX

Short-term rentals are currently allowed in Del Rio, Texas. However, it is important to note that the city is in a transitional phase. As of now, Del Rio does not have specific ordinances regulating short-term rentals, but a public hearing is scheduled for October 14, 2025 regarding "Amendment to the City of Del Rio Code of Ordinances – Short-Term Rental and Zoning Regulations." This suggests that specific regulations may be adopted in the near future.

Investors should be aware that while STRs are currently permitted under existing housing and rental regulations, they must comply with all applicable state laws and local zoning requirements, and should prepare for potential regulatory changes following the upcoming public hearing.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Del Rio

Market Assessment and Planning

Del Rio presents a unique STR market characterized by:

• Location advantages: Proximity to the Rio Grande, Amistad National Recreation Area, and Mexican border
• Seasonal demand patterns: Peak season from March to September, driven by outdoor activities, fishing, boating, and bird watching
• Event-driven tourism: Annual George Paul Memorial Bull Riding event and Cactus Jack Foundation's Pecan and Wine Festival
• Target demographics: Outdoor enthusiasts, hunters during winter months, and cultural tourists

Business Setup Steps

1. Property Acquisition: Ensure the property is in an appropriate zoning district
2. Compliance Verification: Confirm HOA approvals if applicable
3. Property Preparation: Furnish and equip the property for guest accommodation
4. Insurance Procurement: Obtain appropriate liability and property insurance
5. Platform Registration: List on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms
6. Tax Registration: Register for state hotel occupancy tax collection

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Current Requirements (As of 2025)

Since Del Rio has not yet adopted specific STR regulations, operators must comply with:

State-Level Requirements

• Texas Hotel Occupancy Tax (6%): Mandatory for all rentals under 30 days
• State tax registration through Texas Comptroller
• Monthly tax remittance to the state

Local Requirements

• Zoning compliance: Ensure STR use is permitted in the property's zoning district
• Standard rental property requirements: Safety, cleanliness, habitability standards
• HOA/Property Management approval: If subject to association rules

Documentation Needed

• Property ownership documents or lease agreement
• Texas tax identification number
• General liability insurance policy
• Property safety compliance documentation

Future Requirements (Post-October 2025)

The upcoming ordinance may introduce:

• Registration requirements
• Permit processes
• Inspection protocols
• Operational guidelines
• Local tax obligations

Specific Regulations: City, County, and State Level

City of Del Rio

Current Status: No specific STR ordinances in effect

• Standard housing and rental regulations apply
• Zoning laws must be followed
• Safety and cleanliness standards required
• Upcoming: Public hearing October 14, 2025 for STR ordinance consideration

Val Verde County

Current Status: No county-specific STR regulations identified in available sources

• Standard county health and safety regulations apply
• County-level tax requirements (if any) not specified

State of Texas

Comprehensive Requirements:

• 6% State Hotel Occupancy Tax on all rentals under 30 days
• Monthly tax remittance through Texas Comptroller
• Registration with state tax authorities
• Compliance with state health and safety codes
• Adherence to Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act for guest communications

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Del Rio - Primary Contacts

City Hall

• Address: 109 West Broadway, Del Rio, TX 78840
• Phone: (830) 774-8500
• Website: www.cityofdelrio.com

Key Departments for STR Inquiry:

Development Services Department

• Handles zoning, permits, and development-related inquiries
• Contact through City Hall main number

Finance Department

• Responsible for tax collection and business licensing
• Contact through City Hall main number

Code Compliance

• Enforces property standards and local regulations
• Contact through City Hall main number

State-Level Contacts

Texas Comptroller - Hotel Occupancy Tax

• Phone: 1-800-252-5555
• Website: comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/hotel/
• Email: Contact through Comptroller website

Texas Hotel & Lodging Association (Industry Resources)

• Phone: (512) 474-2996
• Email: thla@texaslodging.com
• Address: 1701 West Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Strategic Considerations for Investors

Market Positioning

Given Del Rio's unique location and attractions:

• Outdoor amenities: Prioritize properties with parking for RVs/boats, outdoor grilling areas
• Climate considerations: Air conditioning essential due to warm climate
• Cultural integration: Incorporate local art and Texan architectural elements
• Proximity to attractions: Leverage proximity to Amistad National Recreation Area

Risk Mitigation

• Monitor regulatory changes: Stay informed about the October 2025 ordinance development
• HOA due diligence: Verify STR permissions in association-governed properties
• Insurance adequacy: Ensure comprehensive coverage for STR operations
• Guest screening: Implement appropriate screening procedures despite limited regulations

Competitive Advantages

• Year-round appeal: Outdoor activities in warmer months, hunting season in winter
• Border proximity: Unique cultural experiences available
• Emerging market: Less saturated than major Texas cities
• Event tourism: Leverage annual local events for peak occupancy

Monitoring and Compliance Strategy

Ongoing Monitoring

• City council meetings: Track STR ordinance development
• Code updates: Monitor Del Rio Code of Ordinances changes
• State regulation updates: Stay current with Texas hospitality tax laws

Compliance Checklist

• [ ] Texas state tax registration completed
• [ ] Monthly HOT remittance process established
• [ ] Property zoning verification completed
• [ ] HOA permissions secured (if applicable)
• [ ] Insurance coverage confirmed
• [ ] Property safety standards met
• [ ] Guest communication procedures established
• [ ] Financial tracking systems implemented

Important Considerations for Future Regulations

Given the scheduled October 2025 public hearing, investors should:

1. Participate in the public process: Attend hearings and provide input
2. Prepare for compliance changes: Be ready to adapt to new requirements
3. Budget for additional costs: Potential permit fees, inspections, local taxes
4. Document current operations: Maintain records of compliance efforts
5. Engage with local officials: Build relationships with city staff and council members

Source Information:

• Current STR regulations: www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/del-rio-texas
• Texas state STR context: texaslodging.com/short-term-rental-str-update-2018/
• City information: www.cityofdelrio.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/2632/352?npage=2&toggle=all
• City code: library.municode.com/tx/del_rio

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available information as of the sources provided. STR regulations are rapidly evolving, and investors should verify current requirements with local authorities before making investment decisions.