With Port Aransas’ picturesque beaches and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder you’re considering turning your home into a vacation rental hotspot. But before you take the plunge into the world of hosting, let’s unravel the complexities of Port Aransas’ short-term rental permit requirements. From application procedures to safety regulations, let’s break it down step by step:
Permit Application Process for the City of Port Aransas
To legally operate a short-term rental in Port Aransas, you’ll need to secure a permit from the city. This permit, also known as a Short Term Rental (STR) permit, is obligatory for any rental duration lasting 30 days or less. According to Chapter 12, Article VIII of the City of Port Aransas Code of Ordinances, Section 12-252, prior to using a dwelling unit as a Short Term Rental or advertising its availability, the Operator must submit specific information to the Administrator, including details about the Operator, the property, designated local contact person, and sleeping rooms.
Short-term Rental Registration
For inquiries and assistance regarding Short-Term Rental Registration in Port Aransas, please contact:
Laura Marquardt
Short-Term Rental Specialist
Phone: 361-749-4111, ext. 227
To initiate the registration process or for any questions related to registration and payment, property owners can reach out to Laura Marquardt. If you have not received your account number and activation code, or if you require further guidance on connecting your property to your account, please contact Laura Marquardt for prompt assistance. Additionally, property owners are advised to coordinate with their property management companies regarding registration responsibilities and ensure that the necessary account information is shared appropriately. The Short-Term Rental Registration portal facilitates the registration process, which includes creating an account, receiving activation codes for individual properties, and completing property registration within the specified timeframe. As the city implements these regulations, collaboration and communication are vital to ensure compliance and successful registration of short-term rental properties.
Read the Short-Term Rental Ordinance for Yourself
Designated Local Contact Person
Every vacation rental needs a local contact person available around the clock to address any issues. This designated person should be prepared to respond to complaints within an hour and take prompt action to resolve them. As outlined in Section 12-252 of the Code of Ordinances, this local contact person must be available 24/7 and have the authority to address complaints and take remedial action promptly.
Occupancy Limits
Understanding the occupancy limits set by the city is crucial. These limits are detailed in Section 12-252 of the Code of Ordinances, which specifies that the maximum occupancy is two adults per sleeping room plus four, with children not counted in the calculation. Larger properties may have higher occupancy limits, but these must be determined and approved by the Building Official.
Mandatory Placard
In accordance with the regulations outlined in the City of Port Aransas Code of Ordinances, specifically Section 12-252, short-term rental properties are required to display a placard near the primary entrance. This placard serves as a vital means of communication, prominently showcasing the property’s registration number and contact information. By displaying this information visibly and conspicuously, guests and residents alike can easily identify registered short-term rental properties within the community. This regulation ensures transparency and accountability, enabling guests to reach out to the designated local contact person promptly in case of any issues or emergencies. Additionally, the placard enhances safety and compliance with city regulations, contributing to a positive experience for all stakeholders involved in the short-term rental process in Port Aransas.
Tenant Information Sheet
Once your short-term rental is up and running, you must provide tenants with an informative sheet detailing essential information, as required by Section 12-213 of the Code of Ordinances. This includes contact information for the designated local contact person, occupancy limits, parking locations, noise restrictions, and guidelines for trash disposal.
Fire Safety Requirements
Safety is paramount. All floors with enclosed spaces must have a minimum of one Class 2A:10B:C type fire extinguisher, as mandated by Section 12-213 of the Code of Ordinances. Additionally, compliance with the City’s adopted building code is necessary to ensure health and life safety standards are met.
Waste Management for Vacation Rentals
Maintaining a clean environment is key to ensuring a positive experience for guests and residents alike. Proper waste management is essential for short-term rental properties. Here are some important considerations:
- Trash Toters: The number of trash toters required depends on the number of legal sleeping rooms, as outlined in Section 12-252 of the City of Port Aransas Code of Ordinances. Additional toters may be automatically delivered, with billing adjusted accordingly.
- Recycling: Encourage guests to recycle by providing separate bins for recyclable materials. Clearly label recycling bins to ensure proper sorting of waste.
- Bulk Item Disposal: Arrange for the proper disposal of bulky items such as furniture or appliances. Coordinate with local waste management services for pick-up or drop-off options.
- Proper Disposal of Hazardous Waste: Inform guests of the proper disposal methods for hazardous materials such as batteries, electronics, and chemicals. Provide guidance on local disposal facilities or collection events for these items.
- Trash Collection Schedule: Provide guests with information on the scheduled trash collection days in the area. Remind them to place trash toters at designated pick-up locations and adhere to the specified collection times.
- Guidelines for Trash Disposal: Include clear guidelines for trash disposal in the tenant information sheet, as required by Section 12-213 of the Code of Ordinances. This should cover proper timing, placement of receptacles, and any specific regulations or restrictions enforced by the city.
The Dos and Don’ts of Trash Toters for Short-Term Rental Properties
By implementing these waste management practices, you can help maintain a clean and environmentally responsible operation for your short-term rental property in Port Aransas.
Evacuation Protocol
In the event of a mandatory evacuation order, safety is paramount. All vacation rental units must be immediately evacuated upon notice of a non-resident evacuation order issued by the City, County, or State, as stated in Section 12-213 of the Code of Ordinances.
Registration Renewal
Keep in mind that Short Term Rental registrations expire annually on December 31st and must be renewed promptly to avoid disruptions. Failure to comply with permit requirements may result in penalties or revocation, as outlined in Section 12-214 of the Code of Ordinances.
In conclusion, navigating the intricacies of Port Aransas’ short-term rental permit requirements may appear daunting at first glance. However, with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to city regulations, you can successfully establish and manage your vacation rental property. Prioritizing safety, compliance, and guest satisfaction is essential to creating a positive experience for all involved.
If you find yourself overwhelmed or in need of assistance with the permit application process, fear not! Sand Key Vacation Rentals is here to help. With our extensive experience and daily involvement in managing vacation rentals not only in Port Aransas but also in Rockport, Mustang Island, Portland (TX), Corpus Christi, and beyond, we are well-versed in the regulations governing short-term rentals. Feel free to reach out to us for expert guidance and support throughout your rental journey. Contact us today to learn more about our Port Aransas vacation rental property management services and how we can help you maximize the potential of your property while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
The following articles may also interest you:
