Structure Height Limits: Edinburg vs Mcallen
How do structure height limits rules compare between Edinburg, TX and Mcallen, TX?
Edinburg has fewer restrictions than Mcallen.
Edinburg, TX
Hidalgo County
Hidalgo County sets no building or structure height limit in unincorporated areas because Texas counties have no zoning authority. There is no county maximum height for homes, barns, or accessory structures outside city limits. Any limits come from deed restrictions or HOA covenants, or a city inside city limits.
View full Edinburg rules βMcallen, TX
Hidalgo County
Mcallen zoning code sets maximum building heights by district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2 to 3 stories.
View full Mcallen rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Edinburg | Mcallen |
|---|---|---|
| County height limit | None (no zoning) | - |
| Homes/barns outside city | Not county-capped | - |
| Possible limits | Deed restrictions / HOA | - |
| Near airports | FAA rules may apply | - |
| Inside a city | City zoning caps height | - |
| Residential | - | 35 feet / 2.5 stories typical |
| Measured From | - | Average finished grade |
| Exceptions | - | Chimneys, antennas limited |
| Topic | - | Structure Height Limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Edinburg FAQ
Is there a building height limit in unincorporated Hidalgo County?
No. Texas counties have no zoning, so the county sets no maximum height for homes or structures outside city limits. Deed restrictions or HOA covenants may cap height, and cities cap height within their limits.
Can I build a tall structure on rural county land?
The county imposes no height limit, but check deed restrictions, utility easements, and, near an airport, FAA notice rules. Inside a city, that city's zoning district height limit applies instead.
Mcallen FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Mcallen zoning code for your specific district.
Do chimneys count toward height?
Chimneys and similar projections are usually exempt up to a limited additional height above the roof.
Compare other topics
See how Edinburg and Mcallen compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool