🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Mckinney, TX
McKinney Tightens Short-Term Rental Rules, Focuses on Fair Taxation
Fair Taxes Drive McKinney’s New STR Restrictions
At a recent city meeting, officials zeroed in on hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) tied to short-term rentals. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have been steadily transforming how travelers experience the city — but until now, the tax playing field hasn’t been level.
For years, Airbnb has been a dependable partner in McKinney’s tourism economy, collecting and remitting HOT without much fuss. City staff praised Airbnb’s compliance, noting that it has grown into one of the city’s largest tourism-related revenue streams. That money directly supports McKinney’s growth, from community development to public services.
But VRBO? That’s been a different story. Without a local ordinance requiring the platform to collect and report hotel occupancy taxes, McKinney has been missing out on what could be significant revenue. The gap has been frustrating, especially as short-term rentals continue to gain popularity.
That’s why the city council rolled out a proposed fix: an ordinance change that would bring VRBO in line with Airbnb. If approved, the update would officially require VRBO to collect and remit taxes just like its rival. City leaders say the shift could unlock additional funds for infrastructure projects, local amenities, and the services residents rely on.
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The message behind this move is pretty clear — if you’re operating in McKinney’s tourism scene, everyone plays by the same rules. No exceptions.
This is more than a bookkeeping adjustment. As McKinney’s visitor economy grows, ensuring every platform contributes fairly helps keep the city’s financial footing strong. And that translates into better parks, stronger public services, and continued development that benefits both locals and tourists.
For residents who’ve been watching the rapid rise of STRs, the ordinance change could also signal that city leaders are paying close attention — not just to community impacts, but to making sure McKinney captures its fair share of economic gains.
It’s still early, but officials are optimistic. With both Airbnb and VRBO complying under the same standards, McKinney is setting itself up for a healthier balance between tourism and community needs.
In short? This is about closing loopholes, boosting revenue, and making sure everyone carries their weight. It’s another proactive step that shows McKinney isn’t just welcoming visitors — it’s also making smart choices to sustain its future.
City of McKinney
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