Texas Porch

Agricultural Valuation

Farm and ranch land can be taxed on what it produces, not what it sells for

If you use land for farming or ranching in Eastland County, you may qualify for ag valuation, which can sharply lower your property tax bill.

Under Texas law, qualifying farm or ranch land is taxed based on its ability to produce crops or livestock — not its market value. This is called open-space (1-d-1) agricultural appraisal. It can make a large difference on your annual tax bill, especially for land near growing towns.

The Eastland County Appraisal District sets local standards for what qualifies — such as how many cattle per acre. Cattle ranching and hay production are common uses in this county. You apply through the appraisal district. If you stop qualifying and the land changes use, you may owe back taxes called rollback taxes. Check the appraisal district's ag guidelines for the current local rules.

Source to confirm: Eastland County Appraisal District — Ag Guidelines

More Eastland County notes