Overview: Are STRs Allowed in Marfa, TX?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Marfa, TX, subject to city permits and regulations. The city revised and began enforcing its STR ordinance on January 1, 2023, requiring permits, fees, compliance with safety standards, and tax collection. Marfa's approach aims to balance tourism revenue with housing affordability.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental in Marfa

1. Verify Zoning: Ensure your property is in a zone permitting STRs (not all residential areas allow them).
2. Obtain a City STR Permit: Mandatory before listing.
3. Pay Fees:
   • Base Permit: $500 (annual renewal required).
   • Per-Unit Fee: $100 per rental unit.
4. Register with State/Local Tax Authorities: Collect and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT).
5. Complete Safety Self-Inspection: Submit a checklist confirming compliance (e.g., smoke detectors).
6. Utility Compliance: Install separate meters; pay commercial trash fees.
7. Consider THLA Membership: Optional but recommended for resources/support ($175 covered in permit fee).

Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses

• City STR Permit (application via Marfa City Hall; renewal annually).
• Proof of Insurance: Required for permit issuance.
• Safety Self-Inspection Checklist: Self-reported compliance with safety standards (e.g., smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms).
• Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Registration:
  • Rate: 7% (collected from guests and remitted quarterly to the city).
  • Form: City-provided tax remittance packet.
• Separate Utility Meters: Mandatory for STR properties.
• THLA Membership Certificate: Included in permit fee for those who opt in.

Specific Regulations

City of Marfa

• Permit Fees: $500 + $100/unit annually.
• Enforcement: Active tracking via Airbnb/VRBO; non-compliance fines: $2,000 after 30-day grace period.
• HOT Tax: 7% remitted quarterly.
• Safety Checks: Self-reported checklist (e.g., fire extinguishers, emergency exits).
• Utility Requirements: Separate meters; commercial trash service.
• Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ): STRs permitted within a 0.5-mile radius outside city limits (e.g., partial Sal Si Puedes area).
• Zoning: Not all residential zones allow STRs; verify property eligibility.
• No Caps: Unlike Austin/San Antonio, Marfa does not cap the number of STRs.

State of Texas

• Statewide STR Laws: Governed by local ordinances; no state-level licensing.
• Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT): Cities may impose up to 7% (Marfa charges 7%).
• Property Taxes: Standard local/county property taxes apply.

Key Contacts

| Authority | Contact Details |
|------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|
| Marfa City Hall | Phone: (432) 729-4312 <br>Email: Not provided <br>Website: cityofmarfa.com |
| City Manager | Mandy Roane (oversees STR enforcement). |
| City Clerk/Records | Kelly Perez (STR registration/maintenance). |
| Texas Hotel Lodging Association (THLA) | Included in permit fee ($175). |

Important Links

• Marfa STR Ordinance (2022-16): cityofmarfa.com/sites/default/files/.../ordinance_2022-16_-_str_ordinance.pdf
• Marfa HOT Tax Ordinance: cityofmarfa.com/sites/default/files/.../ordinance_07-11-3a_-_third_amended_hot.pdf
• Big Bend Sentinel STR Enforcement Article: bigbendsentinel.com/2023/01/04/city-of-marfas-short-term-rental-regulations-to-be-enforced-in-2023/

Compliance Timeline

1. Apply for Permit: Submit registration packet (ordinance, forms, fee calculation).
2. 30-Day Grace Period: For permit/fee payment after city notice.
3. Tax Remittance: Quarterly (due dates in city packet).
4. Annual Renewal: Permit and fees due every January.

Enforcement Notes

• The city sent notices to 212 suspected STR operators in early 2023.
• Penalties for non-compliance: $2,000 fine and potential permit revocation.

This guide prioritizes actionable steps and verified regulations. For zoning or permit queries, contact Marfa City Hall directly. State-level Texas STR laws are not explicitly detailed in the sources provided.