Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Pearland, TX?

Yes, short-term rentals ARE explicitly allowed in Pearland, TX, but with comprehensive regulations.

The City of Pearland has established a structured permitting system for short-term rentals (STRs) that became effective July 1, 2022, following the adoption of Ordinance 1611 on April 11, 2022. While the city permits the operation of STRs within its city limits, investors must obtain proper authorization and comply with specific requirements to operate legally.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Pearland

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Short-term rentals in Pearland are defined as residential dwelling units or bedrooms within residential dwellings rented for compensation for less than thirty (30) consecutive days.

Step 2: Apply for Permits

The application process is managed through the city's contracted platform:

1. Create an Account: Go to Munirevs and click the green "Go" button for New User Registration
2. Complete User Profile: Fill out the user profile and continue to Business Profile
3. Gather Required Information: Have your activation code/account number ready (sent via US mail to property owners)
4. Submit Application: Complete the registration through the online platform
5. Pay Fees: Submit $75 nonrefundable application fee plus $100 inspection fee

Step 3: Inspection Process

After permit approval, the Fire Marshal's office will conduct a safety inspection to ensure compliance with all safety requirements.

Step 4: Ongoing Compliance

Once operational, quarterly Hotel Occupancy Tax filings are required through the same platform.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documents

• Proof of homeownership (deed or legal title documentation)
• 24-hour emergency contact information (name, address, phone, email)
• Agent designation (if applicable, written designation for 24-hour contact)

Required Permits and Fees

• Short-Term Rental Registration/Permit ($75 nonrefundable application fee)
• Fire Marshal Inspection ($100 inspection fee)
• Hotel Occupancy Tax Registration (through Munirevs platform)

Information Required for Application

• Property address
• Owner, operator, and agent contact information
• Local contact person details (available 24/7)
• Disclosure of previous STR operation within 12 months
• Disclosure of previous HOT payment compliance

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Pearland Regulations (Chapter 20, Article IX of Code of Ordinances)

Zoning Requirements

• STRs are only permitted in residential zones within city limits
• Properties must comply with applicable zoning district requirements

Occupancy Limits

• Maximum 2 adults per bedroom
• Maximum 10 total occupants (including adults and children)
• Maximum 2 additional adults beyond bedroom capacity (bringing total to 10)

Parking Requirements

• Off-street parking required on-premises
• Minimum 1 parking space per bedroom
• Parking must accommodate motor vehicles for all permitted occupants

Safety Requirements

• Two means of escape required for every room being rented
• Fire Marshal inspection mandatory before operation
• Properties must meet all applicable safety codes

Operational Requirements

• 24/7 emergency contact must be available
• Registration number must be included in all advertising (print and online)
• Permit must be displayed as required by city code
• Properties must be maintained in compliance with city codes

Advertising Requirements

• City registration number must appear in all advertisements
• Marketing without a valid permit is prohibited
• Advertisements must reflect accurate occupancy limits

Permit Limitations

• Not transferable to new property owners
• Valid for one year from issuance date
• Non-transferable to different properties

Enforcement and Violations

• First 12-month period: 1 or fewer violations = automatic one-year extension
• Two or more violations: Must renew after one year
• Violations can result in Class C misdemeanor charges
• Each day of operation without valid permit constitutes separate offense
• Penalty structure: Fines up to amounts established in Section 1-11 of City Code

Revocation and Denial Grounds

• Non-compliance with zoning requirements
• False or misleading application information
• History of non-compliance with applicable laws
• Failure to pay Hotel Occupancy Taxes
• Substantiated complaints from residents

Tax Requirements

• 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax on all bookings
• Quarterly filing and payment required through Munirevs
• Must comply with Chapter 351 of Texas Tax Code
• Must comply with Chapter 28, Article III of Pearland Code of Ordinances
• STR taxes must be separately identifiable from commercial hotel taxes

Harris County Level

No specific Harris County short-term rental regulations were found in the provided content. Properties within Pearland city limits are governed by city regulations.

State of Texas Level (Chapter 351 of Texas Tax Code)

• Hotel Occupancy Tax requirements apply
• Quarterly tax remittance obligations
• Compliance with state tax collection and remittance procedures

Contact Information

City of Pearland Community Development Department

• Phone: 281-652-1638
• Email: permits@pearlandtx.gov
• Address: 3519 Liberty Dr., Pearland, TX 77581

Finance Department (Tax Questions)

• Phone: 281-652-1650

Munirevs Support

• Phone: 888-751-1911
• Email: support@munirevs.com
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fire Marshal's Office

• Inspection scheduling: Through permit application process

City Hall Main Line

• Phone: 281-652-1600

Violation Reporting

• Non-emergency STR Hotline: 281-997-5890
• Online Complaint Form: Available through Munirevs platform

Source Links

• City of Pearland STR Requirements
• Munirevs Platform
• City News - STR Permit Announcement
• Full Ordinance 1611 (PDF)
• ABC13 News Coverage
• Municode Ordinance Reference
• City Tax Information
• Visit Pearland (Convention & Visitors Bureau)

This guide provides comprehensive information for investors considering short-term rental operations in Pearland, TX. The city has established clear pathways for legal operation while maintaining community standards and neighborhood integrity. All prospective operators should carefully review the full ordinance text and maintain ongoing compliance with all requirements.