Travis County regulates adult-oriented businesses in unincorporated areas through state law and county location restrictions, requiring sexually oriented business permits, age 21 staff, and minimum distance from schools, churches, and homes.
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 243 authorizes counties to license sexually oriented businesses outside city limits. Travis County applies location buffers (typically 1,000 feet) from schools, churches, residential property, and public parks. Operators register annually with the county clerk, pay fees, and meet Texas Business and Commerce Code Chapter 102 requirements including a $5 per-customer fee on entry. Inside Austin, city SOB rules and zoning overlays apply instead of county rules. Health inspections for any food or alcohol service follow TABC and TCHHS protocols.
Operating without a county SOB permit, locating within prohibited distance of protected uses, or employing minors triggers misdemeanor charges, civil penalties up to $1,000 per day, and closure orders.
Travis County, TX
Travis County enforces Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 161 indoor smoking restrictions and Austin city ordinances banning smoking in workplaces, restaur...
Travis County, TX
Tobacco and e-cigarette retailers in Travis County must hold a Texas Comptroller cigarette and tobacco permit under Tax Code Chapters 154 and 155, plus a DSH...
See how Travis County's adult entertainment rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.