Oil & Gas Regulation

The Railroad Commission Regulates Oil and Gas, Not Railroads

Despite its name, the Texas Railroad Commission is the state agency that permits and oversees oil and gas drilling in Ector County.

Ector County Rules & Licenses

New residents are often confused by the name. The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) does not regulate trains. It regulates oil and gas exploration, production, and pipelines across Texas — including all of Ector County.

If an oil company wants to drill near your property, it must get an RRC permit first. The RRC also handles environmental cleanup for abandoned wells, oversees flaring, and responds to pollution complaints. If you have a concern about oil field activity near your home, the RRC is the agency to contact. Find permit records and file complaints at rrc.texas.gov.

Source to confirm: Railroad Commission of Texas – Oil and Gas Division

More Ector County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Ector County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax assessor-collector handles payments — they are two separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Cuts Your School Tax Bill

Texas law gives homeowners a $140,000 exemption from the school district portion of their property tax if the home is their primary residence.

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Senior & Disabled Exemption

Extra Tax Break for Homeowners 65 or Older

Homeowners who are 65 or older or who are disabled get an additional $60,000 school district exemption and may qualify for a tax freeze.

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Ag Valuation

Agricultural Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

Landowners who use their Ector County property for farming or ranching can apply to have it taxed on what it produces, not what it would sell for.

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