San Antonio Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID)?
A Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID) is a district created by hotels to generate dedicated funding for tourism marketing and group sales efforts that increase hotel demand, convention business, events, and overnight stays.
Under Texas law, TPID funds may only be used for:
- Marketing and advertising directly related to hotel activity
- Sales, promotion, and business development efforts that increase hotel bookings and events
TPID funds cannot be used for infrastructure, construction projects, or unrelated city services. The funds are intended to supplement — not replace — existing tourism funding.
When was the San Antonio TPID established?
The San Antonio TPID was originally established in 2018 through a partnership between San Antonio hoteliers and the City of San Antonio for an initial eight-year term. The district’s original term expired in September 2026 and was subsequently reauthorized by the San Antonio City Council on September 17, 2026, for an additional 10-year term.
Why was the TPID created?
The TPID was created to provide dedicated funding to:
- Increase convention, meeting, and event activity
- Support enhanced tourism marketing efforts
- Expand sales incentives that attract hotel-generating events
- Strengthen San Antonio’s competitiveness as a destination
The TPID provides supplemental funding beyond traditional hotel occupancy tax resources.
How has the TPID performed?
Since its creation, the San Antonio TPID has helped:
- Increase citywide convention conversion rates
- Attract major national and international events
- Generate significant economic impact through convention and event activity
- Strengthen San Antonio’s position as a leading meetings and tourism destination
The San Antonio TPID has also served as a model for similar districts across Texas.
Governance & Oversight
Who oversees the TPID?
The TPID is overseen through coordination among:
- The City of San Antonio
- Visit San Antonio
- The San Antonio Tourism Public Improvement District Corporation Board of Directors
The San Antonio Tourism Public Improvement District Corporation is governed by a Board of Directors composed of participating San Antonio hoteliers.
What is the TPID Service Plan?
The Service Plan is the governing document that outlines:
- How TPID funds may be used
- Budget categories and allocations
- Program priorities and initiatives
The Service Plan is approved by City Council and updated annually.
Finance & Assessments
How is the TPID funded?
Beginning October 1, 2026 the TPID is funded through a 2% assessment fee on taxable room revenue for participating hotels with 100 or more rooms located within the district.
Hotels collect the assessment from guests as a separate TPID fee and remit it to the City of San Antonio alongside hotel occupancy taxes.
What charges are subject to the TPID fee?
The TPID fee generally applies to charges that are subject to hotel occupancy tax, including:
- Room Rate
- Mandatory room-related charges such as resort/destination fees
Food and beverage sales and other non-hotel-taxable charges are not subject to the TPID fee.
Are exempt stays or prior contracted business subject to the TPID fee?
Generally, stays or charges exempt from hotel occupancy tax are also exempt from the TPID fee.
Can the TPID be dissolved before the end of its term?
Yes. Under state law, a majority of participating hotels may petition City Council to dissolve the TPID prior to the end of its term.