Step 1
Register for Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT)
Register with the City of San Marcos Finance Department and the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit occupancy taxes.
1 weekFree
Documents needed
- Business Information
- Property Details
Cross-referenced against 3 official sources — municipal codes, planning-department pages, and government registries.
Short-term rentals in San Marcos are permitted citywide but strictly regulated through a two-tier permit system based on zoning and proximity.
You must obtain a permit and register for local taxes to run an STR in San Marcos. Residential areas (Type 1) have density limits requiring 660 feet between rentals, while non-residential areas (Type 2) do not. Owner-occupancy is no longer required, but owners are limited to one STR permit within the city.
Step-by-step guide for San Marcos
Register with the City of San Marcos Finance Department and the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit occupancy taxes.
Gather property ownership proof, a parking plan, a floor and fire plan showing exits, and an emergency evacuation plan.
Apply online through the MyGovernmentOnline portal. Select 'Planning and Zoning' then 'Home Share Rental Application'.
Contact Code Compliance to schedule an inspection. The permit is only issued after the property passes a safety review.
Regulatory information is AI-researched from public city/county codes for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Researched & verified by Learn STR at GoStudioM