Weatherford adopts short-term rental rules, caps rentals at 25% of units per block face
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Summary
Council adopted an ordinance to regulate short-term rentals citywide, requiring permits, occupancy limits and a 25% density cap per block face. The decision follows public town halls and mixed public comment.
The Weatherford City Council on Jan. 28 adopted a new ordinance regulating short-term rentals (STRs) in single-family neighborhoods, approving staff’s "alternative 2" approach with an added density limit that caps STRs at 25% of units per block face.
City planning staff presented the ordinance package and noted that short-term rentals were previously allowed only in second-story units in the central business district. The report estimated more than 50 short-term rental listings currently operating within city limits and summarized two town-hall meetings the city held to gather public input. Planning and zoning recommended approval of alternative 2, amended to include a 25% block-face density cap.
Under the ordinance the council adopted, STR operators must obtain a permit renewed every two years, submit an application with proof of hotel-motel tax remittance and liability insurance, comply with occupancy limits (two persons per bedroom), and meet safety and parking standards consistent with single-family residential properties. The ordinance also allows property owners to apply to the Board of Adjustment for special exceptions to exceed the 25% density limit on a block face.
Public comment at the council hearing was substantial and included residents who urged denial, citing neighborhood character, parking, noise, trash and housing affordability concerns. "When property owners convert homes or apartments into short-term rentals, it reduces the supply of housing available for long-term residents," said Emily Prowell, a longtime realtor. Other speakers, including representatives of Texas Realtors, urged protection of property owners’ rights. "Texas Realtors believes the right to rent is a fundamental part of the property-rights bundle," said Karen Mitchell, citing the trade association’s position.
Council members said the ordinance aimed to balance property rights and neighborhood protections. Councilman Zach Smith made the motion to adopt alternative 2 with the 25% density limitation; Councilman Luke Williams seconded, and the council adopted the ordinance. Council staff told councilors they would set a June 1 effective date to allow time to notify existing operators and accept permit applications.
Ending: Councilors said the ordinance provides regulatory tools — permit requirements, occupancy and safety standards, and density limits — and can be revisited later based on enforcement experience and any state-level developments affecting municipal authority.
