Overview

Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Port Aransas, TX. The city has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for short-term rentals (STRs) through Chapter 12, Article VIII of the City Code of Ordinances. STRs are defined as rentals for compensation of all or part of a dwelling unit for periods less than 30 consecutive days, covering single-family residences, apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and other residential real estate improvements.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business

Step 1: Property Assessment and Compliance Verification

Before proceeding with registration, ensure your property complies with:

• Zoning regulations (STR use cannot violate existing zoning, private covenants, or deed restrictions)
• Building codes and safety requirements
• Any applicable homeowners association rules

Step 2: Online Account Creation

1. Visit the Short-Term Rental Registration Portal: portaransas.munirevs.com
2. Create an account following the portal's instructions
3. Wait for your account number and activation code

Step 3: Property Registration

1. Use your account number and activation code to connect your property
2. If you haven't received credentials, contact the STR Specialist
3. Coordinate with your property management company regarding registration responsibilities

Step 4: Permit Issuance and Display

Once approved, you'll receive a unique registration number that must be:

• Displayed prominently on the property (near primary entrance)
• Included in all advertisements and booking platforms

Required Documents, Permits, and Guidelines

Mandatory Registration Information

• Operator details: Name, address, email, telephone number
• Local contact person: Name, mailing address, physical address, 24/7 contact number
• Property information: Name, mailing and physical address
• Occupancy details: Number of sleeping rooms and maximum occupancy
• Additional documentation as determined by the Administrator

Safety and Compliance Requirements

• Fire extinguisher: Minimum one Class 2A:10B:C type (5lb standard) on each floor with enclosed space
• Tenant Information Sheet providing:
  • Property's designated contact person with 24/7 phone number
  • Occupancy limits established during registration
  • Parking location details and fire lane restrictions
  • Noise and lighting restrictions
  • Trash collection information
  • Other administrator-required information

Golf Cart Regulations

Any golf cart provided with the STR must comply with Chapter 23 of the City Code (Traffic & Motor Vehicles).

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Occupancy Limits

• Maximum occupancy: Two adults per sleeping room plus four additional adults
• Children: Not counted in occupancy calculations
• Adult definition: Individual 12 years or older at time of rental
• Final determination: Made at permit issuance/renewal by Building Official

Registration and Renewal Fees

• Registration validity: Initial registration valid for 24 months from completion and payment
• Annual renewal: Required each calendar year (expires December 31st)
• Fee structure: Non-refundable per-unit fee established by City Council
• Payment deadline: Registration expires December 31st annually (not prorated)

Operational Requirements

• 24/7 Local Contact: Must respond in person within one hour to complaints
• Inspection cycle: Every 24 months unless immediate inspection required
• Mandatory evacuation: Required upon notice from City, County, or State

Violations and Enforcement

A permit may be denied, suspended, or revoked for:

• Three or more violations within 12 months
• False or misleading application information
• Advertising without valid permit
• Outstanding city fees, taxes, or fines
• Property transfer without new registration (within 60 days)
• Changed information not reported to city

Zoning and Use Restrictions

• STR operations cannot violate existing zoning, covenants, or deed restrictions
• Properties in homeowners associations must comply with HOA rules
• The more restrictive regulation prevails when conflicts exist

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary STR Contact

Laura Marquardt
Short-Term Rental Specialist
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 227
Email: lmarquardt@cityofportaransas.org

Development Services Department

Nicole Boyer
Planning & Development Director
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 234

Tess Clark
Planning & Development Assistant
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 233

Alex Luzadas
Code Enforcement Officer
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 214

Carla Vanzant
Code Enforcement Officer
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 216

City Hall

Address: 710 W. Avenue A, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Phone: 361-749-4111
Fax: 361-749-4723
Email: info@cityofportaransas.org

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM AND 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Short-Term Rental Hotline

Phone: (361) 333-5659
Purpose: For property owner/manager, resident, and guest use
Response time: 60 minutes to resolve issues
Emergency notice: Always call 911 for actual emergencies

Source Links

• City STR Registration Page: cityofportaransas.org/departments/development-services/short-term-rental-registration/
• Online Registration Portal: portaransas.munirevs.com
• Full STR Ordinance (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Short-Term-Rental-Ordinance.pdf
• Code of Ordinances: library.municode.com/tx/port_aransas/codes/code_of_ordinances
• Short Term Rental Information 2024 (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Short-Term-Rental-Information-2024.pdf
• Updated STR and Hotel Registration Fees Notice (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Notice-of-Updated-STR-and-Hotel-Registration-Fees.pdf
• Sanitation Map 2023 (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sanitation-Map-2023-1.pdf
• Tenant Information Sheet (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tenant-Information-Sheet.pdf
• Trash Do's and Don'ts (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Trash-Dos-Donts.pdf
• HOT Tax Information 11-2024 (PDF): cityofportaransas.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HOT-Tax-Information-11-2024.pdf

Important Note: The city emphasizes collaboration and communication during the implementation of these regulations. If you have questions about the registration process, contact the STR Specialist directly to ensure smooth compliance and successful operation of your short-term rental property in Port Aransas.