Denver vs Houston

Colorado Legal with Permit | Texas Legal with Permit

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

Denver, Colorado
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $100 license fee
Tax Rate 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Every 2 years
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $999/day for unlicensed operation
Houston, Texas
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $90 registration fee
Tax Rate 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for non-compliance

Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.

Permits & Licensing

Denver charges $100 license fee for STR licensing, while Houston charges $90 registration fee. Denver renewal is every 2 years, and Houston renewal is annual. Both cities share a similar regulatory stance, classified as "Legal with Permit."

Tax Obligations

In Denver, hosts pay 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state). In Houston, hosts pay 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state). Both cities benefit from automatic platform tax collection through Airbnb and similar services, simplifying compliance for hosts.

Day Limits & Restrictions

Neither city imposes an annual day limit on short-term rentals, giving hosts year-round flexibility.

Fines & Enforcement

Hosts operating without a permit in Denver face penalties including $999/day for unlicensed operation. In Houston, violations can result in $500/day for non-compliance. Both cities actively enforce their STR regulations, so securing proper licensing before listing is essential in either market.

Denver Overview

Only primary residences may be used as STRs. Hosts must obtain a Short-Term Rental license. No cap on rental days. Accessory dwelling units on the same lot are also eligible.

Contact: Denver Excise & Licenses — (720) 913-1311

Full Denver guide →

Houston Overview

Houston has no zoning code, so STRs are broadly permitted. Hosts must register, collect HOT, and meet fire-safety and parking standards. Deed-restricted communities may impose additional restrictions.

Contact: Houston Administration & Regulatory Affairs — (832) 394-8803

Full Houston guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Denver or Houston?
Denver is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Houston is "Legal with Permit." Denver's permit fee is $100 license fee compared to $90 registration fee in Houston. Both cities have comparable regulatory frameworks.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Denver or Houston?
Denver charges 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state), while Houston charges 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state).
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Denver: $999/day for unlicensed operation. Houston: $500/day for non-compliance. Both cities actively enforce STR regulations, so proper licensing is essential.
Do Denver and Houston have day limits for Airbnb?
Denver has no annual day limit. Houston has no annual day limit.
Which city is better for first-time Airbnb hosts — Denver or Houston?
For new hosts, consider the total cost of entry: Denver charges $100 license fee for permits with 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state) in taxes. Houston charges $90 registration fee with 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state). Automatic tax collection in Denver and Houston makes compliance easier for beginners.