Houston County, Texas

7 local notes for Houston County — practical, plain-English, and pointed at the official source to confirm. East Texas / Piney Woods.

Money & Taxes

Property Tax

Who Sets Your Property Value in Houston County

The Houston County Appraisal District sets property values; a separate tax office collects the bills.

Homestead Exemption

Cut Your Property Tax Bill with a Homestead Exemption

If your Houston County home is your main residence, you may qualify for a homestead exemption that lowers your taxable value.

Agricultural Appraisal

Lower Taxes on Farm and Timber Land in Houston County

Land used for farming, ranching, or timber in Houston County can be taxed on its productivity value instead of its market value, which is often much lower.

Home & Property

Rural Utilities

Septic and Well Rules for Rural Houston County Properties

Most rural Houston County lots rely on private wells and septic systems, both of which require permits and follow state rules.

Cars & Driving

Vehicle Registration

No Emissions Test Required in Houston County

Houston County is not one of the 17 Texas counties that require a vehicle emissions test, so registering your car here is simpler.

Outdoors

Public Land

Hunting and Outdoor Access in Davy Crockett National Forest

Most of Davy Crockett National Forest sits in Houston County, giving residents and visitors open access for hunting, hiking, and fishing.

History & Culture

Local History

Why Houston County and Its Seat Are Named What They Are

Houston County was one of the first counties created by the Republic of Texas in 1837, and its seat Crockett was named for the Tennessee frontiersman David Crockett.