Dallas vs Los Angeles

Texas Restricted | California Legal but Limited

Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.

Dallas, Texas
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $285 registration fee
Tax Rate 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax No
Max Fine $500–$2,000/violation
Los Angeles, California
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $89 registration fee + $850 annual platform fee
Tax Rate 14% Transient Occupancy Tax
Day Limit 120 days/year
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $2,000–$5,000/violation (up to triple for repeat offenses)

Los Angeles has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Dallas Overview

Dallas banned non-owner-occupied STRs in residential single-family zoning districts effective April 2023. Owner-occupied or 'hosted' stays and multifamily/commercial zoning remain allowed with registration.

Full Dallas guide →

Los Angeles Overview

Home-Sharing Ordinance limits STRs to primary residences with a 120-day annual cap (extendable with Enhanced Plan). Registration required. RSO (rent-stabilized) units generally prohibited.

Full Los Angeles guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Dallas or Los Angeles?
Dallas is classified as "Restricted" while Los Angeles is "Legal but Limited." Dallas's permit fee is $285 registration fee compared to $89 registration fee + $850 annual platform fee in Los Angeles.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Dallas or Los Angeles?
Dallas charges 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state), while Los Angeles charges 14% Transient Occupancy Tax. Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Dallas: $500–$2,000/violation. Los Angeles: $2,000–$5,000/violation (up to triple for repeat offenses).