Texas Porch

Mineral Rights

Oil and Gas Production Has Shaped Hockley County Since the 1930s

Oil was discovered in Hockley County in 1937, and the county remains active oil country — meaning mineral rights, surface use agreements, and active wells can affect land you buy.

Hockley County Home & Property

When oil was found in Hockley County in 1937, production grew quickly. By 1948 the county was producing over 20 million barrels per year. That history means mineral rights are commonly severed from surface rights — the person who owns the land may not own the oil and gas below it. When buying rural property, find out whether minerals are included in the sale.

The Railroad Commission of Texas regulates oil and gas wells and pipelines in the state. You can search active wells, permits, and production records for any Hockley County location through their online tools. If an operator wants to use your surface for drilling or pipelines, Texas law requires a surface use agreement. Check the RRC website to look up any wells on or near land you are considering.

Source to confirm: Railroad Commission of Texas — Oil & Gas Production Data

More Hockley County notes

Property Tax

Who Sets Your Property Tax Value in Hockley County

Two separate offices handle property tax in Hockley County — one sets your value, the other collects your bill.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill in Hockley County

If your home in Hockley County is your main residence, a homestead exemption removes part of its taxable value and lowers what you owe.

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Groundwater

Water Wells in Hockley County Come from the Ogallala Aquifer

Most water in Hockley County is pumped from the Ogallala, a large but slowly depleting underground aquifer that feeds farms and rural homes across the High Plains.

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Ag Valuation

Farmland in Hockley County May Qualify for a Lower Tax Valuation

Land used for farming or ranching in Hockley County can be taxed on what it earns rather than what it could sell for. That usually means a much lower tax bill.

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