San Marcos Opens Home Share Applications

“We wanted to embrace the popularity of the sharing economy evidenced through the rising use of bike, car and home sharing programs and provide standards to protect host homeowners and their neighbors,” said Mayor John Thomaides.

San Marcos residents may now register their primary home for Home Share rentals by visiting the City’s website at www.sanmarcostx.gov/homeshare or may apply online at www.mygovernmentonline.gov.

On August 1, the City Council approved the Home Share Rental ordinance that allows home owners or long-term renters to earn income by renting their entire home or a portion of their home or property while present or on vacation. 

“We wanted to embrace the popularity of the sharing economy evidenced through the rising use of bike, car and home sharing programs and provide standards to protect host homeowners and their neighbors,” said Mayor John Thomaides. “This program is a win for homeowners and for visitors drawn to San Marcos’ beautiful spring-fed river, entertainment and shopping venues.”

Registration of Home Share rentals is required for any property located within a residentially zoned district. 

Properties located in a SmartCode or commercially zoned district are permitted to rent without registration. 

Upon receipt of a complete registration and the $61 application fee, eligibility will be verified through proof of residency.

Several standards apply to Home Share rentals:

• Payment of Hotel Occupancy Taxes
• Publication of the City registration number on any advertisements
• No more than one home share rental per applicant or property
• Maximum of two adult guests per bedroom plus an additional two adults
• Brochure that includes emergency information
• Contact information from a local responsible party when the permanent resident is out of town

For more information, contact Planning and Development Services at 512.393.8230 or planninginfo@sanmarcostx.gov.