Harris County uses Texas Local Government Code Chapter 243 to regulate sexually oriented businesses in unincorporated areas. The county prohibits SOBs within 1,500 feet of schools, churches, day cares, public parks, or residential neighborhoods, and requires operator and employee permits issued by the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 243 authorizes counties to regulate sexually oriented businesses outside city limits through location and licensing rules. Harris County Commissioners Court adopted Order Regulating Sexually Oriented Businesses requiring permits for owners, managers, and entertainers, mandating background checks, and barring operation within 1,500 feet of schools, churches, parks, day cares, or another SOB. Hours are limited and on-premises alcohol restrictions follow TABC. Cities including Houston, Pasadena, and Baytown have their own stricter SOB ordinances that supersede county rules within incorporated limits. Harris County Sheriff's Vice Division enforces permits and inspections, and the County Attorney pursues injunctive abatement against unpermitted clubs.
Operating without a permit or within a prohibited distance is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine, plus civil injunction and abatement orders sought by the County Attorney under Chapter 243.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how Pasadena's adult entertainment rules stack up against other locations.
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