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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Fredericksburg, TX

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted by zoning; commercial zones (C1, C1.5, C2, CBD) allow them by right, while residential zones have specific limitations and grandfathering rules. Regulations include defined STR types (Accessory, B&B, Unoccupied, Facility), mandatory inspections for new permits and renewals, and adherence to occupancy and parking standards.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Register and apply online via the My Government Online (MGO) portal. 2) Submit required documentation and schedule a mandatory inspection. 3) Pass the inspection and comply with all zoning verifications to receive the permit, which must be renewed annually.

Regulatory Updates — Fredericksburg

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedApril 2024

Fredericksburg STR Density Caps Enacted

The city capped the percentage of homes on any given block that can operate as STRs, limiting new STR permits in already-saturated residential streets.

Under ReviewFebruary 2025

Gillespie County Considers Unincorporated Area STR Rules

Gillespie County reviewed regulations for STRs outside Fredericksburg city limits, where most wine country vacation rentals are located.

FailedJune 2025

Texas STR Preemption Bill Fails Again

A Texas legislative session again saw preemption bills fail to advance, leaving Fredericksburg and other tourist cities free to impose local STR restrictions.

Official Resources

Official Fredericksburg STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Texas Vacation Rental Alliance (TVRA)Statewide

Statewide advocacy group representing short-term rental owners and managers in Texas.

Fredericksburg Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local chamber representing tourism and hospitality businesses, including STR operators.

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade organization for professional STR property managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Fredericksburg, TX?
STRs are restricted by zoning; commercial zones (C1, C1.5, C2, CBD) allow them by right, while residential zones have specific limitations and grandfathering rules. Regulations include defined STR types (Accessory, B&B, Unoccupied, Facility), mandatory inspections for new permits and renewals, and adherence to occupancy and parking standards.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Fredericksburg?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Fredericksburg. 1) Register and apply online via the My Government Online (MGO) portal. 2) Submit required documentation and schedule a mandatory inspection. 3) Pass the inspection and comply with all zoning verifications to receive the permit, which must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Fredericksburg?
1) Register and apply online via the My Government Online (MGO) portal. 2) Submit required documentation and schedule a mandatory inspection. 3) Pass the inspection and comply with all zoning verifications to receive the permit, which must be renewed annually.
Do I need a license to operate an STR in Fredericksburg?
Yes. Fredericksburg requires a short-term rental license, payment of hotel occupancy tax, and compliance with density caps, parking requirements, and noise rules. Applications are processed through the city's planning department.
What is the density cap for STRs in Fredericksburg?
The city limits the percentage of homes on any given block that may operate as licensed STRs. Once a block reaches its cap, no new STR licenses are issued for that block until an existing one is surrendered.
Are STRs allowed outside Fredericksburg city limits in the Hill Country?
Properties in unincorporated Gillespie County are generally subject to less stringent rules, but county regulations are evolving. Always verify with the county directly, and note that HOA rules may also apply in some subdivisions.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction