Conroe enacts rental mass gathering ordinance

Conroe City Council Implements Strict New Rules for Short-Term Rental Gatherings

Conroe city officials have enacted a new ordinance cracking down on large parties at short-term rental properties, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. The Conroe City Council officially passed the measure on April 25th, with the regulations taking effect swiftly on May 15th.

This decisive action comes in direct response to a series of highly disruptive events that have plagued residential neighborhoods. A major catalyst was a massive, unsanctioned music festival organized by a group known as “No Kings” in March. This particular event occurred at an Airbnb property located on North Loop 336 and reportedly drew thousands of attendees. Residents in the area described the gathering as a nightmare, reporting instances of fights, gunfire, and pervasive drug use. The sheer scale of the event overwhelmed local emergency services, straining resources.

The March incident was not an isolated occurrence. Another similar “No Kings” event in February on Peacock Road had also caused significant issues for residents. For months, community members have voiced widespread complaints about excessive noise, severe traffic congestion, significant trash accumulation, and serious public safety concerns, including underage drinking and the presence of firearms at these rental parties.

The new city ordinance specifically targets “mass gatherings” at short-term rental properties, particularly those situated in residential zones or on lots smaller than two acres. The city has meticulously defined a “mass gathering” under the new rules. It applies to any event hosting 50 or more people. The threshold drops significantly to 25 or more people if alcohol or marijuana is being consumed on the premises. Furthermore, an event with just 15 people present qualifies as a mass gathering if an admission fee is charged.

Under the new regulations, any host planning an event that meets these criteria is now required to obtain a specific permit from the City of Conroe. This permit application must include a detailed security plan outlining how potential issues will be managed.

Violations of these new rules carry substantial penalties for property owners. Fines can reach up to $2,000 per violation, per day, for non-compliance. Beyond monetary penalties, the city also reserves the right to pursue legal action against property owners who repeatedly disregard the ordinance. While some short-term rental owners have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their businesses, a significant number of Conroe residents have voiced relief, seeing the city’s intervention as a crucial step toward preserving peace and ensuring safety within their neighborhoods.