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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Kemah, TX

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (any privately owned dwelling rented for less than 30 consecutive days) are regulated by the City; certain uses (hotels, motels, RV parks, institutional housing, government-owned housing) are exempt. Maximum occupancy: two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons; operators must post operator/local contact, parking locations, occupancy limits, guest rules, and garbage instructions; operators must collect and remit the City 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax and comply with health/safety standards and inspections. Applications may be denied for HOA/deed restrictions or recent permit suspensions.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete and submit the City of Kemah Short-Term Rental Permit application by mail, email (galfaro@kemahtx.gov), or in person with required documents: proof of ownership, HOT account number, floor/site plans, and the $450 fee. 2) The City performs an on-site inspection within 30 days to confirm health, safety, and occupancy standards. 3) Upon passing, a permit is issued (valid until Dec 31); operators must then collect and remit the 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax.

Official Resources

Official Kemah STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Kemah, TX?
Short-term rentals (any privately owned dwelling rented for less than 30 consecutive days) are regulated by the City; certain uses (hotels, motels, RV parks, institutional housing, government-owned housing) are exempt. Maximum occupancy: two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons; operators must post operator/local contact, parking locations, occupancy limits, guest rules, and garbage instructions; operators must collect and remit the City 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax and comply with health/safety standards and inspections. Applications may be denied for HOA/deed restrictions or recent permit suspensions.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Kemah?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Kemah. 1) Complete and submit the City of Kemah Short-Term Rental Permit application by mail, email (galfaro@kemahtx.gov), or in person with required documents: proof of ownership, HOT account number, floor/site plans, and the $450 fee. 2) The City performs an on-site inspection within 30 days to confirm health, safety, and occupancy standards. 3) Upon passing, a permit is issued (valid until Dec 31); operators must then collect and remit the 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Kemah?
1) Complete and submit the City of Kemah Short-Term Rental Permit application by mail, email (galfaro@kemahtx.gov), or in person with required documents: proof of ownership, HOT account number, floor/site plans, and the $450 fee. 2) The City performs an on-site inspection within 30 days to confirm health, safety, and occupancy standards. 3) Upon passing, a permit is issued (valid until Dec 31); operators must then collect and remit the 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax.
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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