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

Yes, short-term rentals are currently allowed in El Paso, Texas. However, the regulatory landscape is evolving. As of the most recent information available, El Paso does not have a city-specific ordinance regulating short-term rentals. STRs are grouped under bed-and-breakfast lodging in the current city code, but the city is actively working on developing dedicated STR regulations.

The absence of specific local regulations means that STR operators must comply with existing state laws, general nuisance ordinances, and various city codes that apply to all properties and residents.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in El Paso

Current Process (As of 2025)

1. Property Compliance: Ensure your property meets all applicable zoning requirements and building codes
2. HOA Review: Check your homeowners association's CC&Rs, as they may impose stricter limitations than city regulations
3. Tax Registration: Register with the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax
4. Insurance: Obtain appropriate liability insurance for short-term rental operations
5. Platform Registration: List your property on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo (they will handle tax collection for their bookings)

Future Requirements (Under Development)

The city is currently developing a comprehensive STR ordinance that will likely include:

• Property classification system (Type 1: single-family/two-family, Type 2: multifamily)
• Primary residence vs. non-primary residence distinctions
• Application and registration requirements
• Fee structure (preliminary proposal suggests single fee renewable every three years)
• Density limitations and spacing requirements

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Currently Required

• Texas Hotel Occupancy Tax Registration: Required for all STR operators
• Business License: If operating as a business entity (recommended)
• General Liability Insurance: Strongly recommended

Under Consideration (Not Yet Implemented)

• STR Registration Permit: Proposed single fee renewable every three years
• Fire Safety Requirements: Life safety compliance verification
• Site Plan Approval: For properties meeting certain criteria
• Guest Notification Documentation: Required indoor signage and information

Always Required Compliance Documents

• Floor plans and occupancy information
• Emergency contact information for guests
• Evacuation routes and safety information
• Local contact information for neighbors

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

State-Level Regulations (Texas)

• Hotel Occupancy Tax: 6% state tax on all STR bookings
• Definition: STRs are defined as residential properties rented for 30 consecutive days or less
• Tax Collection: Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit taxes for platform bookings; direct bookings require self-reporting by the 20th of the month following the rental

City of El Paso Regulations

Currently, no specific STR ordinances exist, but the following general ordinances apply:

Noise Ordinance

• Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM daily
• Violations: Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500
• Best Practices: Use noise monitoring devices, inform guests of rules, avoid parties

Residential Parking Ordinance

• Parking limitations vary by district throughout the city
• Citations issued for violations
• Best Practices: Monitor guest parking, provide clear instructions

Residential Waste Ordinance

• Waste and recycling must be stored in assigned bins
• Items must be brought to/from curb on pickup days
• Citations issued for violations

El Paso County (Unincorporated Areas)

Properties outside El Paso city limits fall under El Paso County regulations, which currently mirror the city's approach with no specific STR ordinances for principal structures.

Contact Information for Local Authority

Texas Comptroller (Hotel Occupancy Tax)

• Website: comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/hotel/
• Phone: Not specified in provided content
• Email: Not specified in provided content

El Paso Short-Term Rental Alliance

• Website: elpasostra.org
• Contact Form: Available on website
• Facebook Group: "El Paso Airbnb Hosts" (for community support)

City of El Paso Planning Department

• Website: elpasotexas.gov (Planning and Inspections section)
• Phone: Not specified in provided content
• Email: Not specified in provided content

Emergency Contacts for Violations

• El Paso Police Department: For noise violations and disturbances
• Code Enforcement: For property standards violations

Links to Source Pages

1. El Paso Short-Term Rental Alliance - STR Requirements: www.elpasostra.org/str-requirements/
2. KFOX14 News Article - El Paso Considers STR Ordinance: kfoxtv.com/news/local/el-paso-considers-new-ordinance-for-short-term-rentals
3. City of El Paso STR Presentation (PDF): www.elpasotexas.gov/assets/Documents/CoEP/Planning-and-Inspections/Business-Licensing/short-term-rentals-presentation.pdf
4. CBS4 News Article - STR Ordinance: cbs4local.com/newsletter-daily/el-paso-considers-new- ordinance-for-short-term-rentals

Important Notes for Investors

• Regulatory Landscape: The current lack of specific regulations may change rapidly. Monitor city council proceedings for updates.
• HOA Considerations: Homeowners associations may impose stricter rules or even ban STRs, regardless of city allowances.
• Tax Compliance: Ensure proper registration and collection of Hotel Occupancy Tax to avoid penalties.
• Neighbor Relations: The absence of specific STR regulations makes good neighbor practices crucial for long-term operation.
• Platform Policies: Stay informed about Airbnb and Vrbo's community policies and reporting mechanisms.

Future Outlook

El Paso is actively working on comprehensive STR regulations. The city has conducted stakeholder meetings and community feedback sessions. Based on the presentation materials, the new ordinance is expected to include registration requirements, fee structures, and operational guidelines while balancing STR operations with neighborhood protection. Investors should stay engaged with the El Paso Short-Term Rental Alliance and monitor city communications for updates on implementation timelines and requirements.