Experience with STR regulations in New Braunfels, TX

[Elaina Burkhart]

Hello all, we are looking to possibly purchase an STR in New Braunfels, TX. The numbers seem to work well in this area as I run them, but I'm a little concerned about the STR regulations. I have looked at their city website and it looks like they do not allow STRs in 60% of the area, they do allow STRs (with a Special Use Permit) in about 30% and then the remaining 10% are "allowed by right with permit" but don't require the Special Use Permit. Obviously it would be ideal to find a property within that 10% area that allows a basic permit because the website says the special use permit process can take 8-12 weeks with a public hearing. Has anyone had to get a SUP for their STR in this area? To think that we would be purchasing a property with the plan to rent it out, just to be denied the permit seems very risky, however I read that a lot of people invest in STRs in this area. I feel like maybe I'm missing something or may I'm being too intimidated by this SUP process because I'm not familiar with it. I understand that having set regulations in the STR world is not a bad thing, but I don't want to run the risk of being denied a permit. Thanks!!!