ETJ and City Limits

Corpus Christi has land-use authority beyond its city limits

Corpus Christi controls development in an area outside its official city limits called the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), which can affect what you can build on nearby rural land.

Nueces County Home & Property

Texas cities can control land just outside their city limits. That zone is called the extraterritorial jurisdiction, or ETJ. Corpus Christi has an ETJ around it. Land inside that zone must follow Corpus Christi's plat rules. You still pay county taxes — not city taxes. You do not get city water or sewer just because you are in the ETJ.

The City of Corpus Christi's Development Services handles permits for both city land and ETJ land. Not sure if a parcel is in the ETJ? Ask the city or the county before you build or divide any land.

Source to confirm: City of Corpus Christi — Development Services

More Nueces County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two different offices handle your property tax

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax office sends the bill and collects the money.

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Homestead Exemption

A homestead exemption can lower your property tax bill

If this home is your main residence, you may qualify for an exemption that reduces the taxable value of your property.

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Special Districts

Several special districts can add to your tax bill

Depending on where you buy, Emergency Service Districts, drainage districts, and hospital and water authority districts may all appear on your tax statement.

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Agricultural Valuation

Farmland can be taxed on what it produces, not its market value

Qualifying farm or ranch land in Nueces County may be appraised at productivity value rather than full market value, which usually means a much lower tax bill.

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