Latest City of Galveston Updates:
Oversight of short-term rentals transitioned from the Galveston Park Board of Trustees to the City of Galveston on October 1, 2025. The city looks forward to working with all short-term rental owners to ensure properties remain safe, compliant, and successful.
STR Registration
All short-term rental owners are required to register their properties. The process is simple and can be completed online. To access the short-term rental platform and complete your registration or renewal, visit here. The registration fee is $250 for both new registrations and renewals, and payments made by ACH or credit/debit card will include a small convenience fee.
Registrations must be renewed annually between December 1 and December 31. Failure to renew by the deadline will result in removal of your listing from STR platforms and possible fines. New registrations may be completed at any time.
For questions or assistance, contact:str@galvestontx.gov. Support is available at 409-797-5195 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
GVR Numbers
For new registrations, a Galveston Vacation Rental (GVR) number will be assigned once payment is received. For renewals, your existing GVR number will remain active. Your GVR number must be displayed on all property listings and advertisements, whether print or digital. For questions, email: str@galvestontx.gov
How to Pay Hotel Occupancy Tax
Hotel tax must be charged on each STR booking and remitted to the City of Galveston.
Monthly Filing Requirement: If your HOT report exceeds $1,500 in a quarter, you are required to file monthly reports. Monthly reports are due by the 20th of the month following the reporting period.
Quarterly Filing Eligibility: If your property generates $500 or less per month in taxes, or $1,500 or less per quarter, HOT may be filed quarterly. These quarterly reports are due April 20, July 20, October 20, and January 20.
The City of Galveston does require you to file zero-dollar reports, even when no tax is due and/or if an online platform like Airbnb and Vrbo are collecting and remitting HOT on your behalf.
More information about paying HOT tax
Frequently Asked Questions | Galveston, TX – Official Website
Online Reporting and Paying Service | Galveston, TX – Official Website
