Buying Commercial Land in Houston

Houston is well known for not having a traditional zoning ordinance. That does not mean anything can be built anywhere. Land use inside the city is shaped by recorded deed restrictions, development rules in the City Code, platting requirements, drainage and detention standards, and utility availability. Outside city limits, county rules and utility districts take over.

Start with jurisdiction

Confirm whether the parcel is inside the City of Houston, another municipality, the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), or unincorporated county. Each answer changes who reviews your plat, driveway, drainage and building permits.

Deed restrictions carry real weight

Many Houston-area tracts are subject to recorded restrictions that limit use, setbacks or building type. Ask your title company for all recorded restrictions and read them in full — the listing description is not a substitute.

What to verify before you commit

• Recorded restrictions, easements and any HOA or POA covenants (title commitment)
• Platting status and whether a replat is needed for your plan
• Driveway access — city, county or TxDOT approval depending on the road
• Water, sewer and power: providers, capacity and cost to extend
• Floodplain status and detention requirements for new impervious cover
• Utility district (MUD) taxes and fees, where applicable

Rules change and vary by jurisdiction. Confirm current requirements directly with the City of Houston, the relevant county and your civil engineer.