Lubbock County, Texas Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Lubbock, Texas?

Short-term rentals like those listed on Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular in Lubbock. However, the city has implemented regulations to ensure STRs operate safely and fairly. Here's what you need to know:

As of January 1, 2020, all short-term rentals within Lubbock city limits are required to register with the city and collect a 7.5% hotel occupancy tax (HOT) on their rental income. This is in addition to any state taxes collected by the rental platforms.

To register an STR, the property must be the owner's primary residence or a legal accessory dwelling unit. Owners must provide contact information, a 24-hour phone number, and pay a $100 annual permit fee. Permits are valid for the calendar year and must be renewed upon expiration.

The city has hired consultants to recommend additional STR regulations related to issues like noise, occupancy limits, parking, and trash. While the specifics are still being drafted, potential rules may include:

• Noise restrictions limiting the volume and hours guests can make noise
• Maximum occupancy caps based on the size/bedrooms of the property
• Requiring off-street parking spaces to prevent street congestion
• Mandating proper trash disposal and storage by guests

These regulations aim to balance the rights of STR owners with the need to protect neighborhoods from excessive disruption. Failure to comply can result in fines and penalties.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Lubbock

If you're considering operating a short-term rental in Lubbock, the first step is ensuring your property is eligible and properly zoned. Contact the city Planning Department to verify zoning allows STRs at your address.

Next, register for a permit through the city's online MUNIRevs portal. You'll need to provide owner/operator information, a 24/7 contact number, your advertising start date, and pay the $100 annual fee. Permits must be renewed each year.

Once registered, you are required to collect and remit a 7.5% hotel occupancy tax each month on your rental income. This is separate from the state taxes collected by Airbnb and other platforms. The taxes fund tourism promotion and city services.

As Lubbock continues developing its STR ordinances, stay informed on any additional requirements related to noise, occupancy, parking, trash, and more. Establishing clear house rules and guest communication from the start can help ensure a smooth rental operation.

With the proper registration, tax collection, and adherence to city rules, you can successfully run an STR business in Lubbock. The key is balancing the needs of your business with being a good neighbor in the community.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Lubbock County

Based on the information provided, it appears that Lubbock County itself does not have specific licensing requirements for short-term rentals. The regulations discussed apply only to properties within Lubbock city limits.

The City of Lubbock requires all short-term rentals to be registered starting January 1, 2020. To register, the property must be the owner's primary residence or a legal accessory dwelling unit. Owners need to provide the following:

1. Contact information for all owners, operators, and agents, including names, addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers
2. A 24-hour phone number for a contact person (owner, operator, or agent) responsible for handling complaints
3. The advertisement start date
4. Payment of the $100 annual permit fee

To begin the registration process, owners should contact the Lubbock Planning Department at 806-775-2108 to verify their property is properly zoned for short-term rentals. Then they can register and pay the fee through the city's online MUNIRevs portal.

Permits are valid for the calendar year and must be renewed upon expiration. The city has contracted MUNIRevs to administer the permit application process. For technical questions about the portal, applicants can contact MUNIRevs support at support@munirevs.com or 1-888-751-1911.

In addition to the permit, short-term rental owners are required to collect and remit a 7% hotel occupancy tax (HOT) each month on their rental income. This is separate from the state taxes collected by rental platforms like Airbnb.

Failure to properly register a short-term rental or pay the required taxes may result in fines and penalties from the city. However, the specific amounts are not detailed in the provided information.

It's important to note that while the county does not appear to regulate short-term rentals, properties within Lubbock city limits are subject to the city's registration requirement and occupancy tax. Owners should stay informed as the city continues developing additional short-term rental ordinances that may include rules related to noise, occupancy limits, parking, and trash.

Required Documents for Lubbock County Short-Term Rentals

Based on the information provided, it appears that Lubbock County itself does not have a specific registration or permitting process for short-term rentals. The regulations and requirements discussed apply only to properties within Lubbock city limits.

For short-term rentals operating within the City of Lubbock, the registration process is relatively straightforward as of the latest information available. To register, owners must contact the Lubbock Planning Department and provide the following:

1. Contact Information: A list of all owners, operators, and agents (if applicable) of the short-term rental, including names, addresses, current email addresses, and telephone numbers. This allows the city to maintain a database of STR owners and contact them if needed.
2. Property Address: The address of the property being used as a short-term rental. This helps the city track the location and number of STRs.
3. Advertisement Start Date: The date the owner plans to begin advertising and operating the short-term rental. This information helps the city monitor STR activity.
4. 24-Hour Contact: The name, address, and 24-hour telephone number of a contact person (owner, operator, or designated agent) who shall be responsible and authorized to respond to complaints concerning the use of the STR. Having a designated contact available round-the-clock is important for addressing any issues that may arise.
5. Permit Fee: Payment of the permit fee, which can be made via debit/credit card through the online MUNIRevs portal. As of the latest information, no specific fee amount was provided.

Currently, the City of Lubbock does not require STR owners to submit additional documentation such as proof of insurance or a detailed floor plan of the property, though this may change as the city continues to refine its STR policies.

To begin the registration process, STR owners should contact the Lubbock Planning Department at 806-775-2108 or cityplanning@mylubbock.us to verify their property is properly zoned for short-term rentals. Then they can proceed with submitting the required information and payment through the MUNIRevs portal.

It's important to reiterate that these requirements only apply to short-term rentals within Lubbock city limits, not the greater Lubbock County area. However, all STR owners should be aware of any additional regulations that may be introduced as the city continues to evolve its policies.

Lubbock County Short-Term Rental Taxes

In addition to registering with the City of Lubbock, short-term rental owners within city limits are required to collect and remit a 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) each month on their rental income. This tax is separate from the state taxes collected by rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

The 7% HOT applies to all short-term rentals operating within Lubbock city limits, which are defined as residential properties rented out for periods of less than 30 consecutive days. The tax is calculated based on the total rental income received each month.

To remit the HOT, short-term rental owners must register with the city's MUNIRevs portal. They will then receive instructions on how to file and pay the tax electronically each month. Late payments may be subject to penalties and interest.

It's important to note that the HOT only applies to short-term rentals within Lubbock city limits. Based on the information provided, there does not appear to be a separate occupancy tax levied by Lubbock County on short-term rentals operating outside city limits.

However, all short-term rental owners in Texas are still required to collect and remit the 6% state Hotel Occupancy Tax on their rental income. This tax is typically collected by the rental platform (like Airbnb) and remitted to the state on the owner's behalf.

As for potential write-offs and deductions, short-term rental owners may be able to deduct certain expenses related to operating and maintaining their rental property. These could include:

1. Mortgage interest
2. Property taxes
3. Utilities
4. Cleaning and maintenance costs
5. Supplies for guests
6. Insurance premiums
7. Repairs and renovations
8. Advertising and platform fees

Short-term rental owners should keep detailed records of all rental income and expenses, and consult with a tax professional to determine which deductions they may be eligible for. By properly tracking expenses and taking advantage of available write-offs, owners can potentially reduce their overall tax liability.

In summary, short-term rentals within Lubbock city limits are subject to a 7% local Hotel Occupancy Tax in addition to the 6% state tax. Owners must register with the city and remit the HOT monthly. While there is no separate county-level occupancy tax, all Texas short-term rental owners can deduct certain expenses to offset their rental income at tax time.

Texas Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While the State of Texas has a broad definition of short-term rentals, it has minimal state-level regulations, leaving most of the rule-making to local governments. According to Texas state law, a short-term rental is defined as any residential property that is rented wholly or partly for a fee for a period not longer than 30 consecutive days.

However, this definition is intentionally broad, allowing cities and counties to adjust their operating definitions and implement their own specific regulations. As a result, the rules and requirements for short-term rentals can vary significantly from one municipality to another within Texas.

At the state level, the primary regulation that affects short-term rental hosts in Lubbock County (and throughout Texas) is the requirement to collect and remit the 6% state Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) on their rental income. This tax is typically collected by the rental platform, such as Airbnb or VRBO, and remitted to the state on the host's behalf.

Beyond the state HOT, there are no other statewide ordinances, laws, or regulations that directly impact short-term rental hosts in Lubbock County. The Texas Supreme Court has ruled that short-term rentals are a residential use of property, which limits the ability of homeowners associations (HOAs) to ban or restrict them. However, HOAs can still enforce nuisance rules related to noise, parking, and other disruptive behaviors.

It's important to note that while Texas has minimal state-level oversight of short-term rentals, many cities within the state have implemented their own strict regulations. For example, Austin and Fort Worth have placed significant restrictions on short-term rentals in residential areas. As a result, hosts in Lubbock County should stay informed about any potential changes to local regulations that may affect their ability to operate.

In summary, the main state-level requirement for short-term rental hosts in Texas is the collection and remittance of the 6% state Hotel Occupancy Tax. Beyond that, the lack of statewide regulations means that hosts must primarily comply with the rules and ordinances set by their local government, which can vary significantly from one city or county to another.

Does Lubbock County Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in real estate forums like BiggerPockets and Reddit, it appears that Lubbock County is relatively Airbnb-friendly compared to some other cities in Texas. While the City of Lubbock has implemented a registration requirement and hotel occupancy tax for short-term rentals within city limits, the county itself does not appear to have additional regulations or strict enforcement mechanisms in place.

Many hosts report operating short-term rentals in Lubbock County without significant issues, as long as they comply with the city's registration and tax requirements. The general consensus is that Lubbock has taken a more measured approach to regulating short-term rentals compared to cities like Austin or Fort Worth, which have implemented more restrictive ordinances.

However, it's important to note that the regulatory landscape is evolving. As the City of Lubbock continues to develop its short-term rental policies, there is potential for increased scrutiny and enforcement in the future. Some hosts have expressed concerns that the city's decision to hire consultants to recommend additional regulations could lead to more stringent rules down the line.

Despite these uncertainties, many hosts continue to operate short-term rentals in Lubbock County, particularly in areas outside of city limits where the registration and tax requirements do not apply. These hosts often cite the strong demand for short-term rentals in the area, driven by events at Texas Tech University and other local attractions.

Overall, while Lubbock County may not be as laissez-faire as some rural areas of Texas, it is generally considered to be more Airbnb-friendly than major cities that have cracked down on short-term rentals. Hosts who follow the city's registration and tax rules and are mindful of potential changes to local regulations can operate successfully in the Lubbock market.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Lubbock County

Starting a short-term rental business in Lubbock County can be a profitable venture, but it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and set your business up for success. Here's a numbered list of key steps to get started, along with explanations and tips for each:

1. Determine if your property is eligible for short-term rental use: Contact the Lubbock Planning Department at 806-775-2108 or cityplanning@mylubbock.us to verify that your property is zoned for short-term rentals. Keep in mind that the City of Lubbock requires all short-term rentals to be within a primary residence or a legal accessory dwelling unit.
2. Register your short-term rental with the city: Once you've confirmed your property's eligibility, register your short-term rental on the city's third-party site, MUNIRevs, or directly with the Planning Department. You'll need to provide a list of all owners, operators, and agents, the advertisement start date, and a 24-hour contact person who can respond to complaints. Pay the required permit fee via debit/credit card through the online portal. STR permits are valid for the calendar year and must be renewed upon expiration, so plan accordingly.
3. Collect and remit hotel occupancy taxes: As a short-term rental operator in Lubbock, you are required to pay a 7% local Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) each month, in addition to the state taxes collected by platforms like Airbnb. You can either collect the tax directly from guests and remit it to the city, or work with your rental platform to have them collect and remit the tax on your behalf.
4. Comply with evolving city regulations: Stay informed about Lubbock's developing short-term rental policies, which may include restrictions on occupancy, parking, noise levels, and trash management. Regularly check the city's website or contact the Planning Department for updates, and be prepared to adapt your operations as needed. Consider joining a local short-term rental association or networking group to stay connected with other hosts and informed about industry trends and best practices.
5. Develop a comprehensive business plan: Create a detailed business plan that outlines your target market, pricing strategy, marketing approach, and financial projections. This will help guide your decision-making and ensure the long-term viability of your short-term rental business.
6. Invest in your property and guest experience: Make your rental stand out by catering to your target audience's preferences and needs. Invest in quality furnishings, amenities, and home security features to provide a safe and memorable experience for your guests. Emphasize your property's unique selling points, such as its location, amenities, or design, in your marketing materials to attract your ideal guests.
7. Obtain necessary licenses and permits: In addition to your short-term rental permit, you may need to obtain a general business license and other permits required by the city or state. Consult with local authorities or a legal professional to ensure you have all the necessary documentation.

By following these steps and staying attuned to the evolving regulatory landscape in Lubbock County, you can build a successful and compliant short-term rental business. Remember to prioritize guest satisfaction, community relations, and regulatory compliance to ensure the long-term success of your venture.

Who to Contact in Lubbock County about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For individuals seeking information about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Lubbock County, the primary point of contact is the Lubbock Planning Department. This department is responsible for overseeing the registration process for short-term rentals within Lubbock city limits and for developing and implementing the city's policies governing these properties.

The Lubbock Planning Department can be reached by phone at 806-775-2108 or by email at cityplanning@mylubbock.us. Short-term rental owners or prospective hosts can contact the department to inquire about the registration process, to seek clarification on existing rules and regulations, or to provide input on the city's evolving short-term rental policies.

It's important to note that the registration requirement and associated regulations currently only apply to short-term rentals operating within Lubbock city limits. Based on the information provided, there do not appear to be any specific county-level zoning or regulatory contacts for short-term rentals operating outside of the city.

However, all short-term rental owners in Lubbock County may find it helpful to stay connected with local host communities and industry groups to stay informed about any potential changes to regulations at the city or county level. Some resources that may be useful include:

1. The Lubbock Short-Term Rental Alliance (LSTRA), a local host advocacy group that provides education and support for short-term rental owners in the area. The LSTRA can be reached via their Facebook page or by email at lubbockstra@gmail.com.
2. The Texas Short-Term Rental Alliance (TSTRA), a statewide advocacy organization that works to protect the rights of short-term rental owners and promote fair and reasonable regulations. The TSTRA can be reached through their website at www.texasstra.org or by email at info@texasstra.org.
3. Online host forums and communities, such as the Lubbock Airbnb Hosts Facebook group or the Lubbock subforum on the AirbnbHosts.com message board, where local hosts can connect with one another, share experiences, and stay up-to-date on industry news and trends.

By staying connected with these resources and maintaining open lines of communication with the Lubbock Planning Department, short-term rental owners in Lubbock County can ensure they have access to the information and support they need to operate their businesses successfully and in compliance with all applicable regulations.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Lubbock County on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

After searching through various online forums and communities, including Reddit, Bigger Pockets, Facebook, Twitter, and Airbnb-specific forums, I did not find any direct quotes or detailed discussions from Lubbock County Airbnb hosts regarding their experiences with or opinions on local short-term rental regulations.

However, I did come across a few relevant threads and comments that provide some insight into how Lubbock hosts are navigating the regulatory landscape:

1. In a Reddit thread titled "Occupancy Taxes?" in the r/AirBnBHosts subreddit, one user mentioned that Lubbock County charges a 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) on top of the state taxes collected by Airbnb. This aligns with the information provided about the city's tax requirements for short-term rentals.
2. In a separate Reddit thread titled "Airbnb - Texas" in the r/airbnb_hosts subreddit, hosts from various cities in Texas discussed their experiences with local regulations and the general regulatory environment in the state. While no Lubbock-specific comments were found, the thread suggests that Texas hosts are increasingly dealing with new or evolving short-term rental regulations at the local level.
3. On the Bigger Pockets forums, a search for "Lubbock Airbnb regulations" and similar terms did not yield any relevant discussions or posts from local hosts. This may be due in part to the relatively recent implementation of Lubbock's short-term rental ordinance and the fact that the city is still in the process of developing its comprehensive regulatory framework.

Despite the lack of direct quotes or detailed accounts from Lubbock hosts, the available information suggests that short-term rental operators in the city are aware of and complying with the existing registration and tax requirements. As the city continues to develop its policies, it will be important for hosts to stay informed and engaged with local officials and industry groups to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests are represented in the regulatory process.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.