Do you own or have you thought about owning an Airbnb in the Fort Worth area? The city of Fort Worth is currently debating whether or not to end short-term rental properties in residential areas. The proposed ban comes from concerns that these rental properties could become party houses, as well as worries that with more strangers coming and going in neighborhoods, some families may not feel safe. We are still waiting on the city to release more information in the upcoming months, but in this blog, you’ll see some of the changes that have been made thus far.
If you are considering investing in a short-term rental property in Fort Worth or already own one, it is important to understand the current situation. Continue reading to learn why Fort Worth wants to ban these rentals and how the rules and regulations have changed!
Why is Fort Worth trying to ban short-term rentals?
Fort Worth has proposed a ban on short-term rentals in residential areas due to fears of party houses and the lack of familiar faces in neighborhoods. With the influx of rental properties, more and more strangers would be entering residential areas, making some families feel unsafe.
While these may be valid concerns, the threat of banning these rental properties would be detrimental to rental property owners in the Fort Worth area.
Have Airbnb's always been allowed in residential areas?
In the past, short-term rentals such as Airbnb’s were not legally allowed in residential areas. However, this restriction was rarely enforced due to a lack of proper authority and resources in Fort Worth. Consequently, many Airbnb’s began operating illegally, leading to the current issue.
How have the rules changed?
In light of the recent changes, operating a rental property now requires registration with the city of Fort Worth. there is also a $150 registration fee and a $100 annual renewal fee. Additionally, owners must pay a hotel tax, which cannot be transferred to the next owner of the property.
New Short-term Rental Requirements
- Short-term rentals in zoned areas must register with an annual fee of $150 for the first year and $100 for renewals.
- Hotel occupancy taxes must be collected from the property and a minimum stay of one night is required.
- A local responsible party must be available 24/7 and no more than one group may inhabit the property at a time.
- Renters are limited to two people per bedroom, plus two additional persons, with a maximum of 12 people allowed to stay in the property.
- On-premise parking is the only option, events, and parties are prohibited.
Instructions must be provided to comply with noise, trash, parking, and curfew ordinances. - Advertising and operating short-term rentals without registration is not allowed, and registration may be revoked due to violations.
