The new ordinance, which goes into effect in just a few days, requires hosts to follow specific rules.

HOUSTON — Two teenagers were shot during a large party at a short-term rental property in Houston’s Historic Third Ward, sending both to the hospital and renewing concerns about party houses just as the city prepares to enforce a new ordinance aimed at regulating short-term rentals.

Police said the shooting happened at a home where about 40 teens had gathered for a party. Investigators said a fight broke out inside the home and then spread to a neighboring parking lot, where gunfire erupted.

One of the teens injured is in critical condition, while the other is stable. Police are still searching for the shooter.

The owner of the short-term rental told KHOU 11 News that parents booked the home through Booking.com for their teenage son’s going-away party. 

They said the family didn’t ask for permission to host a party, and they don’t allow parties at their rental.

The incident comes as the city moves closer to enforcing new rules for short-term rental hosts. Under a recently passed ordinance, hosts are required to register their properties by January 1. Those who fail to do so could see their ability to rent their homes online shut down. While registration is due at the start of the year, the city said it will begin delisting noncompliant properties on April 1.

Ed Pettitt, vice president of the super neighborhood, said he understands both sides of the issue. Pettitt is also a short-term rental host and says responsible operators are being unfairly lumped in with problem properties.

“I am both Airbnb host and someone who has called to report these short-term rentals that are bad actors,” Pettitt said.

He added that smaller, owner-occupied rentals like his are not the source of the ongoing problems.

“We have a lot of developers buying property and renting them out as party houses,” Pettitt said.

The new ordinance, which goes into effect in just a few days, requires hosts to follow specific rules. Those include keeping noise levels under control and prohibiting the hosting or advertising of special events.

Pettitt said the policy has promise but remains cautious about its impact.

“Policy is good in theory. We need to see how it plays out,” Pettitt said.

He also expressed concern that enforcement could push party houses to less regulated platforms.

“Airbnb and other platform will abide…but a whole slew will pop up and other people use that aren’t on the city’s radar and will see the party house shift to those,” Pettitt said.

As of now, the investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.

We reached out to Airbnb, which confirmed the property where the party took place was not listed on its platform.

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