Texas Porch

Minerals Under Your Land

Oil, Lignite, and Mineral Rights in Titus County

Titus County has a history of oil production and lignite coal deposits; if you buy land here, mineral rights may be owned separately from the surface.

Titus County Home & Property

Oil was discovered in the Talco oil field in February 1936. That field produced for decades and contributed significantly to the county's economy. The county also has deposits of lignite coal, ceramic clay, and industrial sand. Large lignite-fueled power plants operated in the county for decades, though the Monticello Steam Electric Station near Mount Pleasant closed in 2018.

In Texas, the surface rights and mineral rights to a piece of land can be owned by different people. If you buy rural land in Titus County, check the deed carefully to see whether mineral rights are included. The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) regulates oil and gas production in the state. You can search for active or historic wells on the RRC's public data portal at rrc.texas.gov.

Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook of Texas — Titus County

More Titus County notes

Property Tax Basics

Who Handles Your Property Tax in Titus County

Two separate offices handle property taxes in Titus County — one sets the value, the other collects the bill.

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Save on Your Tax Bill

How the Homestead Exemption Works in Titus County

If you own and live in your home in Titus County, you can apply for a homestead exemption that lowers your taxable property value.

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Ag Exemption

Agricultural Land Valuation in Titus County

Landowners who use their land for farming, ranching, or timber may qualify for a much lower tax valuation based on how the land is used, not what it would sell for.

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Rural Wastewater

Septic Systems in Titus County

Much of Titus County is rural with no sewer hookups, so many homes use septic systems regulated under state and local rules.

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