Dallas County, TX Public Conduct: Jaywalking (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- TX Transp Code 552.005
- Crosswalk signal rule
- TX Transp Code 552.002
- Typical fine
- $20 to $200 plus costs
- County ordinance
- None
- Some cities
- Decriminalized minor crossings
Summary
Texas Transportation Code 552.005 requires pedestrians crossing outside marked crosswalks to yield right-of-way to vehicles in Dallas County. There is no specific jaywalking offense countywide; the Dallas County Sheriff and city police enforce pedestrian rules under state law and city codes.
Sec. 552.005. CROSSING AT POINT OTHER THAN CROSSWALK. (a) A pedestrian shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle on the highway if crossing a roadway at a place: (1) other than in a marked crosswalk or in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection; or (2) where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided. (b) Between adjacent intersections at which traffic control signals are in operation, a pedestrian may cross only in a marked crosswalk. (c) A pedestrian may cross a roadway intersection diagonally only if and in the manner authorized by a traffic control device.
Full Breakdown
Texas does not use the term jaywalking; Transportation Code 552.005 simply requires a pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point other than within a marked crosswalk to yield the right-of-way to all vehicles. Other provisions in Subchapter 552 govern crossing against signals (552.002), walking along roadways (552.006), and obstructing traffic. Dallas County does not enforce a separate jaywalking ordinance; Dallas County Sheriff issues citations under Transportation Code in unincorporated areas, and cities like Dallas (City Code 28-150) and Plano apply parallel municipal traffic rules. Several Dallas County cities have decriminalized minor pedestrian violations after racial-profiling concerns. Civil penalty is typically $20 to $200 plus court costs.
Violations & Fines
Crossing outside a crosswalk without yielding under Transportation Code 552.005 is a Class C misdemeanor traffic violation. Crossing against a Don't Walk signal under 552.002 is also Class C. Fines run $20 to $200 plus court costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is jaywalking illegal everywhere in Dallas County?
Can I be arrested for jaywalking in Dallas County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas County to another location·View the Texas public conduct overview
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