The welcome sign outside the city of Georgetown. 

(KXAN File Photo) (KXAN News/Mercedez Hernandez)

KXAN

by: Julianna Russ

Posted: Sep 26, 2024 / 10:37 AM CDT

GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) — On Tuesday, Georgetown City Council approved implementing a short-term rental (STR) program set to begin Nov. 1.

The program would impact those who rent out their homes or rooms on websites like Airbnb and VRBO in Georgetown.

Through the program, all STR operators are required to register their properties with the city, distribute a neighborhood notice, and collect and remit local Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) to the city of Georgetown.

The city said the purpose of the STR program was to enhance neighborhood quality of life, ensure compliance with registration and HOT payments, and improve communication between the city, STR owners and their neighbors.

According to the city, there would be an initial registration fee of $100, but those who register between Nov. 1, and Jan. 1, 2025, would have the registration fees waived.

“Operating an STR without proper registration and permits is a violation of the City’s Code of Ordinances,” the city said.

According to the city, as of September, Georgetown had 285 STR listings.

Earlier this month, the city said it was taking a closer look at short-term rentals. The city previously said only about 30 of them were paying the HOT and estimated it could earn more than $250,000 in revenue if all STRs paid the tax.

Barrett Tryon contributed to this report.