Overview: STR Status in Brownsville, TX

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Brownsville, Texas, but they are strictly regulated. On November 12, 2024, the City of Brownsville adopted a comprehensive Short-Term Rental (STR) ordinance that requires all STR operators to register their properties and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) on a monthly basis, treating them similarly to hotels, motels, and other lodging providers.

This regulatory framework ensures fair competition among all accommodation types while generating additional revenue for local tourism initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and city services.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Brownsville

Step 1: Verify Property Eligibility

• Confirm your property is located within Brownsville City Limits
• Ensure your property is in an approved zoning district that allows STRs
• Review city code requirements that apply to your specific property type

Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation

Gather all necessary documents before beginning the application process:

• Valid government-issued ID
• Proof of ownership (deed) or lease agreement
• If managed by someone else, signed authorization/management agreement
• Detailed floor plan and site map showing room layouts, exits, parking, and access points
• Proof of liability insurance coverage
• Local 24/7 emergency contact information

Step 3: Submit Application

• Apply online through Visit Brownsville's designated portal
• Pay the $50 non-refundable application fee
• No physical applications are accepted

Step 4: Await Processing

• Applications are reviewed for completeness and compliance
• An inspection may be required (currently being finalized by the city)

Step 5: Permit Issuance and Compliance

• Once approved, display your permit prominently
• Begin collecting and remitting HOT monthly
• Maintain ongoing compliance with all city regulations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Mandatory Permits and Fees

• STR Permit: Required for all STR operations
• Permit Fee: $50 (non-refundable)
• Renewal: Annual renewal required (no additional fee if renewed on time)
• Validity: 1 year from issuance

Required Documentation

1. Completed Application (online submission only)
2. Proof of Ownership or Management Agreement
   • Deed, lease, or signed authorization if managed by third party
3. Floor Plan & Site Map
   • Must show layout of rooms, emergency exits, parking, and access points
4. Emergency Contact Information
   • Local 24/7 contact responsible for the property
5. Liability Insurance Proof
   • Evidence of active insurance coverage

Safety and Compliance Requirements

• Working smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas
• Carbon monoxide detectors where applicable
• Fire extinguishers readily accessible
• Posted emergency exit information
• Visible house numbers for emergency responders
• Compliance with city noise ordinances
• Occupancy limits based on bedroom count and fire code regulations

Tax Obligations

• Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) collection and monthly remittance required
• Tax collection portal currently under development
• Monthly reporting mandatory to maintain compliance

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations (Brownsville)

Zoning and Location

• STRs only permitted within Brownsville City Limits
• Must be in zoning districts that allow such use
• Each property listing requires its own permit (no blanket permits for multiple properties)

Operational Requirements

• Definition: Any property rented for 30 consecutive days or less
• No On-Site Manager Required, but designated 24-hour local contact mandatory
• Permits Non-Transferable: New owners must apply for new permits
• No Retroactive Tax Collection: Tax collection timeline will be defined when city begins collection

Safety and Quality Standards

• Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers required
• Emergency exit information must be posted
• Visible house numbers mandatory
• Occupancy limits based on bedroom count and fire code

Advertising and Marketing

• Properties cannot be listed on platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) until valid permit obtained
• Existing STRs operating before ordinance adoption remain valid but must obtain permits

Compliance and Enforcement

• Monthly HOT remittance required
• Compliance with noise ordinances mandatory
• Repeated violations may result in fines, permit suspension, or revocation
• Operating without permit prohibited with penalties including fines and legal action

Complaint Process

• Neighbors can report issues to city call center: (956) 546-4357
• Multiple violations can lead to permit revocation

County-Level Regulations

Note: No specific Cameron County STR regulations were identified in the provided content. STR operations should comply with all applicable county codes and ordinances.

State-Level Regulations (Texas)

Note: The provided content focuses primarily on Brownsville city regulations. Texas state law regarding STRs may impose additional requirements including:

• State Hotel Occupancy Tax obligations
• Property tax implications
• Consumer protection requirements
• Americans with Disabilities Act compliance for certain properties

Contact Information

Primary Contact: Visit Brownsville

• Email: visitbtx@brownsvilletx.gov
• Website: visitbtx.com/short-term-rentals/
• Application Portal: us.openforms.com/Form/9cfa704e-f462-4f64-befd-2672604d2bbb

City of Brownsville Government

• Phone: (956) 546-4357
• Address: 1001 E Elizabeth Street, Brownsville, TX 78520
• City Website: www.brownsvilletx.gov/
• STR Permit Page: www.brownsvilletx.gov/2538/Short-Term-Rental-STR-Permit-Application

HOT Tax Reporting

• Portal: str.brownsvilletx.gov/ (currently under development)

Municipal Court (for citations/violations)

• Online Payment: brownsvilletx.municipalonlinepayments.com/brownsvilletx/court/search

Additional Resources and Support

Educational Materials

• STR Ordinance available on Municode: library.municode.com/tx/brownsville/ordinances/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=1352743
• Webinar recordings available (June session completed, additional fall sessions planned)
• FAQ section with 23 common questions and answers

Business Support

• Brownsville Chamber of Commerce: brownsvillechamber.com/
• Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation: brownsvilleedc.org/

Code of Ordinances

• Complete city ordinances available: library.municode.com/tx/brownsville/codes/code_of_ordinances

Key Takeaways for STR Investors

1. Market Opportunity: Brownsville actively welcomes compliant STR operations with a clear, streamlined regulatory framework
2. Low Barrier to Entry: $50 permit fee with no additional renewal costs if renewed on time
3. Tax Responsibility: Monthly HOT remittance required, aligning with other lodging providers
4. Safety First: Comprehensive safety requirements protect guests and operators
5. Community Integration: 24/7 local contact requirement ensures responsive operations
6. Compliance Critical: Strict enforcement with penalties for non-compliance, including permit revocation

The city's proactive approach to STR regulation demonstrates a commitment to balancing economic opportunity with community welfare, making Brownsville an attractive market for compliant STR operators.