Texas defines short-term rentals as 30 days or less. Leah Burton joins host Matthew Holbrook to unpack what HOAs can do—if the declaration authorizes it. We cover drafting amendments (often 12-month minimums), curbing amenity abuse, lease registration + deposits, staffing impacts, and accelerated, compliant fine schedules.

Learn more about Leah: https://www.steptoe-johnson.com/bio/leah-k-burton/

Connect with Leah on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leah-k-burton-esq-ccal-97858312

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:59 Policies aren’t enough—authority must be in the declaration/CCRs.

05:38 STR = 30 days or less; cover pools/guest houses too.

06:14 Blocking the “31-day” workaround; why 12-month minimums.

07:00 Investor sales, amenity access shifts to tenants, registration & deposits.

11:20 Staffing and management agreement addenda; cost-benefit.

15:17 Make fines “hurt”; create a leasing-violation category.

16:31 Texas fine policy: notice + 30-day hearing window; when fines attach.

30:26 Legislative note: no STR law passed that session.

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