Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Rockport, TX

Short-term rentals are defined as privately owned dwellings rented for less than 30 days and are permitted subject to city zoning and applicable building, fire, noise, parking, and hotel occupancy tax requirements. Maximum occupancy is 3 times the number of sleeping rooms (adults only); a designated Local Contact Person must be available (response in 24 hours) and the STR permit number must be included in all advertisements; on-site parking, garbage, and safety (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguisher) rules apply.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Rockport. 1) Complete the required online registration form via the City portal (https://portal.deckard.com/tx-aransas-city_of_rockport-str-portal/) supplying owner/operator and Local Contact info, property address, number of sleeping rooms, zoning, parking diagram, owner authorization if not owner, and pay the initial non-refundable fee of $150; 2) Allow on-site inspection by the Building Official (live inspection required every 2 years) and satisfy applicable code requirements; 3) Receive a unique STR permit (valid 12 months); renew annually with a $100 renewal fee and provide proof of Hotel Occupancy Tax payment for prior registration periods.

1) Complete the required online registration form via the City portal (https://portal.deckard.com/tx-aransas-city_of_rockport-str-portal/) supplying owner/operator and Local Contact info, property address, number of sleeping rooms, zoning, parking diagram, owner authorization if not owner, and pay the initial non-refundable fee of $150; 2) Allow on-site inspection by the Building Official (live inspection required every 2 years) and satisfy applicable code requirements; 3) Receive a unique STR permit (valid 12 months); renew annually with a $100 renewal fee and provide proof of Hotel Occupancy Tax payment for prior registration periods.

Yes. Rockport has a relatively straightforward registration process now handled through an online portal. Requirements include basic safety compliance, a local contact, and annual renewal. There are no caps or geographic restrictions.

No frequency caps exist. As long as you maintain registration and comply with noise and conduct ordinances, you can rent as frequently as you choose. The only definition of 'short-term' is stays of fewer than 30 days.

Harvey caused significant property damage in 2017, temporarily reducing STR supply. Rebuilding activity has since restored and expanded housing stock, and the STR market has recovered strongly. Some post-Harvey zoning accommodations have now expired.