Travis County, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Adult Entertainment (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum age
- 21 years old
- Buffer distance
- 1,000 feet typical
- State fee
- $5 per customer
- Authority
- TX Local Govt Ch. 243
Summary
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.
Sec. 243.003. AUTHORITY TO REGULATE. (a) A municipality by ordinance or a county by order of the commissioners court may adopt regulations regarding sexually oriented businesses as the municipality or county considers necessary to promote the public health, safety, or welfare. Sec. 243.006. SCOPE OF REGULATION. (a) The location of sexually oriented businesses may be: (1) restricted to particular areas; or (2) prohibited within a certain distance of a school, regular place of religious worship, residential neighborhood, or other specified land use the governing body of the municipality or county finds to be inconsistent with the operation of a sexually oriented business. (b) A municipality or county may restrict the density of sexually oriented businesses.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can SOBs operate in Travis County?
Is the $5 entry fee real?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas business licensing & operations overview
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