Municipal ordinances such as zoning laws are laws enacted by municipal governments on matters the state allows to be regulated at the local level—such as whether a building or tract of land can be used for residential purposes, commercial purposes, or both—as well as the permitted height of buildings; building setbacks (from streets); the permitted number of bedrooms; and the required parking spaces.

Municipal ordinances have the same force and effect within a municipality’s limits as a state statute does. If you plan to buy a lot to build a new home or buy, rent, build, or work out of a physical property for your business, make sure your intended use conforms to local zoning requirements.

Neighborhoods are generally zoned for either commercial or residential use. Zoning ordinances can restrict or ban specific kinds of businesses (bars, adult entertainment) from operating in an area.

You may have fewer zoning restrictions if you base your business out of your home, but zoning ordinances can still apply to home-based businesses.

In Texas, municipal ordinances, including zoning laws, are established by city governments to regulate land use within their jurisdiction as permitted by state law. These ordinances dictate how property can be used, such as for residential or commercial purposes, and include regulations on building heights, setbacks, the number of bedrooms, and parking requirements. They carry the same legal weight within the city limits as state statutes. Before purchasing or developing property for a home or business, it is crucial to ensure that the intended use is in compliance with the local zoning ordinances. While residential areas are typically zoned to exclude commercial activities, commercial zones can also have restrictions, such as prohibiting bars or adult entertainment venues. Home-based businesses may face fewer zoning constraints, but they are still subject to applicable local zoning laws. It's important for property owners and businesses to be aware of and adhere to these regulations to avoid legal issues and penalties.