Short-Term Rental Rules in Fort Worth, TX (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Fort Worth, TX, in specified zoning districts. Hosts must register and pay taxes to operate legally [1][2].
Do you need a permit or license?
Registration is mandatory for all short-term rentals (STRs) within Fort Worth [1][2]. STRs are allowed in mixed-use, most form-based, commercial, and industrial districts but not in residential districts [2][3]. The initial registration fee is $150, with an annual renewal fee of $100 [2]. STR registration must be prominently displayed at the property and is not transferable [2].
Taxes
Fort Worth requires STRs to collect a 9% Hotel Occupancy Tax from guests [2]. This includes a 7% hotel tax and a 2% hotel convention tax [2]. Taxes must be filed monthly via Localgov, and payments are late after the 25th of each month [2].
Limits and restrictions
STRs are limited to mixed-use, commercial, and industrial zoning districts [2][3]. A maximum of three people per bedroom, up to nine people total, is allowed per rental [3]. All STRs must provide on-site parking, and no special events are permitted [3].
Penalties
Failure to register or comply with tax obligations can lead to citations [1][2]. Late tax payments incur a 15% penalty plus 10% annual interest [2]. Violations may result in registration revocation or suspension [3].
How to apply
Registrations must be submitted online via Localgov and include a zoning confirmation PDF [2]. Step-by-step instructions are provided on the website [2].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Registration | Required with $150 fee, $100 annual renewal [2]. |
| Zoning districts | Allowed in mixed-use, commercial, industrial, not residential [2]. |
| Occupancy limits | Max three people/bedroom, nine total [3]. |
| Taxes | 9% Hotel Occupancy Tax collected, filed monthly [2]. |
| Penalties for non-compliance | Fines, interest, registration loss [2][3]. |
FAQ
What are the registration fees?
The initial registration fee is $150, with an annual renewal fee of $100 [2].
How are hotel occupancy taxes paid?
Taxes are filed monthly via Localgov, due by the 25th each month [2].
Are STRs allowed in residential districts?
No, STRs are not allowed in residential districts [2][3].
Short-term rental rules elsewhere in TX
- Short-term rental rules in Galveston, TX
- Short-term rental rules in Houston, TX
- Short-term rental rules in San Antonio, TX
- Short-term rental rules in Austin, TX
Running a rental in Fort Worth
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- § 7-455 SHORT-TERM RENTAL REGISTRATION REQUIRED. (official)
- Short-Term Rentals (STR) – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (official)
- Short-Term Rental (official)
- Bob Terrell (official)
Last checked: October 18, 2026. This page summarizes rules the government has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the local authority before you list a property.