Texas counties cannot generally zone land. Dallas County regulates only subdivision plats, floodplains, and on-site sewage facilities in unincorporated areas under Local Government Code Chapter 232. Specific land-use plans are adopted by member cities, not the county.
Unlike home-rule cities, Texas counties lack general zoning authority. Dallas County Public Works Development Services reviews subdivision plats, drainage, road frontage, and septic systems in unincorporated portions under TX Local Government Code 232 and Health and Safety Code 366. There is no countywide zoning map, no specific plans, and no overlay districts. Land use is constrained primarily by deed restrictions and by city extraterritorial jurisdiction rules. The county does enforce floodplain development permits in unincorporated areas to maintain National Flood Insurance Program eligibility. Cities like Dallas and Plano adopt their own zoning and area plans.
Subdivision and floodplain violations may carry civil penalties up to 1,000 dollars per day under TX Local Government Code 232.005, plus injunctions to halt development until compliance. There is no zoning enforcement at the county level.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto restricts parking of commercial vehicles in residential zoning districts. Commercial vehicles over one ton rated capacity, semi-tractors, trailers ove...
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto requires all residential swimming pools with water depths over 24 inches to be fully enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) tall, per Texas...
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto generally permits wood, vinyl, wrought iron, chain link, masonry, and composite fences in residential zones, but each district has specific rules. Fro...
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto limits residential fence heights based on yard location. Fences in front yards are typically limited to 4 feet tall, while side and rear yard fences m...
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto requires fences to be structurally sound, properly installed, and maintained in good repair. Posts must be set in concrete footings of adequate depth ...
DeSoto, TX
DeSoto discourages feeding of wildlife that creates nuisance or public health concerns. Intentional feeding of feral hogs, coyotes, raccoons, and similar wil...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how DeSoto's specific plans overview rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.