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Fort Worth, TX

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STR Regulations for Fort Worth, Texas

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Fort Worth?

Yes, short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in Fort Worth, Texas, but with significant restrictions. STRs are permitted only in mixed-use and most form-based, commercial, and industrial zoning districts. They are explicitly prohibited in all residential zoning districts including A-#, AR, B, R1, R2, CR, C, D, and UR districts.

This regulatory framework was established through City Ordinance No. 26005-02-2023, approved by City Council in February 2023, and upheld by a district court judge in March 2025, affirming the city's authority to regulate STRs and maintain the character of residential neighborhoods.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Fort Worth

Step 1: Zoning Verification and Compliance

Before proceeding with any other steps, you must verify that your property is located in an allowed zoning district. STRs are permitted in:

  • Mixed-use zoning districts
  • Most form-based zoning districts
  • Commercial zoning districts
  • Industrial zoning districts

STRs are prohibited in all residential districts. If your property is not in an allowed district, you may apply for a Zoning Change to Planned Development (PD), though approval is not guaranteed.

Step 2: Registration Process (Mandatory)

All legal STRs must register with the City of Fort Worth through the Localgov online portal:

Registration Requirements:

  • Complete annual registration application through Localgov (tax.localgov.org/)
  • Fee: $150 for first-time application, $100 for annual renewal
  • Upload Zoning Confirmation PDF showing "success" message
  • Submit registration BEFORE listing the property for use

Step 3: Hotel Occupancy Tax Compliance

All STRs must collect and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) at the rate of 9% of room receipts.

Step 4: Ongoing Compliance

  • Maintain current registration (renew annually)
  • Display registration confirmation prominently at the property
  • Follow all operational regulations
  • File monthly HOT reports even with $0 revenue

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Registration Requirements

  1. STR Registration Application (submitted annually)

    • Physical/street address of the STR
    • Owner information (name, address, email, phone, signature)
    • Corporate owner's representative information
    • Operator/agent information (if applicable)
    • Designated local responsible party contact information
    • Certified statement affirming compliance with all city codes

  2. Zoning Confirmation

    • PDF document showing "success" message from zoning verification
    • Must be uploaded as part of registration application

  3. Hotel Occupancy Tax Registration

    • One-time registration through Localgov
    • No registration fee required
    • Remains valid indefinitely unless ownership changes or revoked

Ongoing Documentation Requirements

  1. Monthly Hotel Occupancy Tax Reports

    • Required even if $0 tax due
    • Filed through Localgov by 25th of following month

  2. Records Retention

    • All financial records supporting monthly reports
    • Must be maintained for compliance auditing purposes

  3. Local Responsible Party Designation

    • Name and contact information of person available 24/7
    • Must be reachable by phone and able to respond within 1 hour
    • Authorized to make decisions regarding premises and occupants

Safety and Operational Guidelines

  • Must comply with International Residential Code bedroom egress requirements
  • Adherence to city noise ordinances
  • Compliance with solid waste and recycling regulations
  • Parking restrictions must be observed

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals in Fort Worth

Operational Restrictions

Occupancy Limits:

  • Maximum 2 persons per bedroom, plus 2 additional persons
  • Absolute maximum of 12 persons (including children) at any time
  • Only one group allowed per reservation

Parking Requirements:

  • Maximum vehicles limited to available off-street parking spaces
  • No parking on unapproved surfaces
  • Parking on public streets must comply with all city ordinances

Length of Stay:

  • Minimum stay: 1 night
  • Maximum stay: 29 consecutive days
  • No ongoing month-to-month tenancies for the same renter as primary residence

Prohibited Activities:

  • No advertising or hosting of special events (weddings, receptions, parties, concerts, etc.)
  • No use as event center as defined in Zoning Ordinance
  • No noise violations per Chapter 23-8 of City Code
  • No improper waste disposal

Required Disclosures and Notices

Host Rules Requirements: Must provide occupants with written instructions covering:

  • Occupancy restrictions
  • Parking limitations
  • Trash pickup procedures
  • Special event prohibitions
  • Noise limits and curfew times
  • All applicable city regulations

Registration Display:

  • Copy of approved STR registration must be posted conspicuously inside front entrance(s)

Advertising Requirements:

  • Current registration number must be included in ALL advertisements
  • Any medium: websites, platforms, print, mobile applications
  • Use of unauthorized registration numbers is prohibited

Enforcement and Penalties

Citation Grounds:

  • Operating unregistered STR
  • Violations of occupancy limits
  • Parking violations
  • Noise violations
  • Failure to collect/remit HOT
  • False reporting
  • Hosting prohibited events

Penalties:

  • Misdemeanor charges possible
  • Fines up to $500 per violation (up to $2,000 for fire safety, zoning, health violations)
  • Each day of violation constitutes separate offense
  • Registration revocation possible with 12-month waiting period for new registration

Hotel Occupancy Tax Requirements

Tax Rate: 9% of room receipts ($2+ per day)

  • 7% hotel tax
  • 2% hotel convention tax

Filing Requirements:

  • Monthly filing due by 25th of following month
  • Must file even with $0 revenue
  • Late penalties: 15% of total tax owed
  • Interest: 10% per annum on unpaid taxes

Exemptions:

  • Certain guests exempt per City Code
  • STR responsible for ensuring compliance with exemption rules
  • STR liable for taxes, penalties, and interest if ineligible exemptions granted

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary STR Contacts

Central Revenue Office (Fort Worth)

Localgov Customer Service (Registration and HOT Filing)

Code Compliance Department (Enforcement)

Development Services (Zoning Information)

Additional Resources

City of Fort Worth Main Number: (817) 392-1234 City Hall Address: 100 Fort Worth Trail, Fort Worth, TX 76102

Links to Source Pages

Official City Sources

Legal Documents

State-Level Resources

News and Updates

Training Materials

Important Disclaimer: This guide is based on information available as of January 2024. STR regulations can change, and investors should verify current requirements with official city sources before making investment decisions. The legal challenge to Fort Worth's STR ordinance has been ruled in the city's favor, but appeals may still be filed.

Fort Worth

Market Saturation Score

036912
Moderate Saturation
5/ 12
months with declining YoY revenue
5–7 declining months: moderate saturation risk - market may be nearing capacity.
View Full Fort Worth Market Analysis →

Photos of Fort Worth

Overview of Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX: An Overview and Appeal for Short-Term Rentals

Overview of the City: Fort Worth, Texas, often known as "Cowtown," is a vibrant and culturally rich city situated in North Central Texas. As of the latest census, the city has a population of approximately 935,508, making it the 13th largest city in the United States. Fort Worth is located about 32 miles west of Dallas, which is the closest major city, and forms part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, commonly referred to as the DFW Metroplex.

Appeal for Short-Term Rentals: Fort Worth's appeal for short-term rentals is deeply rooted in its diverse attractions, cultural landmarks, and economic opportunities. The city is home to a variety of attractions that draw both business travelers and tourists, making it an ideal market for short-term rental properties.

Landmarks and Attractions:

  1. Fort Worth Stockyards: A visit to the historic Fort Worth Stockyards (www.fortworthstockyards.org/) offers a unique glimpse into the city’s Western heritage with daily cattle drives, rodeos, and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

  2. Kimbell Art Museum: Known for its world-class collection, the Kimbell Art Museum (www.kimbellart.org/) is a renowned cultural institution featuring works spanning from antiquity to the 20th century.

  3. Fort Worth Zoo: Famous for being one of the top zoos in the nation, the Fort Worth Zoo (www.fortworthzoo.org/) houses over 7,000 animals and offers a range of family-friendly activities.

  4. Sundance Square: This vibrant, 35-block shopping and entertainment district (sundancesquare.com/) in downtown Fort Worth offers an array of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment venues.

  5. Fort Worth Water Gardens: An architectural and engineering marvel, the Fort Worth Water Gardens (www.fortworth.com/listings/fort-worth-water-gardens/4769/) provides a serene urban park space with impressive water features.

Economic and Business Hub: Fort Worth serves as a significant hub for various industries including aviation, defense, and manufacturing. The presence of major corporations such as Lockheed Martin, American Airlines, and BNSF Railway further bolsters the city’s economic landscape, attracting business travelers who often seek short-term rentals.

Conclusion: Fort Worth, TX, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse attractions, and strong economic base, offers a compelling case for the proliferation of short-term rentals. The city's blend of historical landmarks, cutting-edge museums, and vibrant districts ensures a steady influx of tourists and business travelers, making it a prime location for real estate investment in short-term rental properties.

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