Can I get my land released from a city's ETJ in Texas?
TexasReviewed October 2026
Yes, in many cases. Senate Bill 2038, passed in 2023 and effective September 1, 2023, lets landowners and residents leave a city's ETJ. For an area with fewer than 200 residents, release can be requested by petition signed by more than 50 percent of registered voters in the area or by the owners of a majority in value of the land. Larger areas use a petition to call an election. Under the City of Austin's guidance, a complete petition must be granted, and if the city does not act within 45 days the area is released by law. Land within five miles of certain military bases is excluded. Once released, county rules still apply.
Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.