Texas Porch

Weather Hazards

Wildfire and Flash Floods Are Real Hazards in Gillespie County

Dry conditions and steep terrain make Gillespie County prone to both wildfires and sudden flash flooding.

Gillespie County Home & Property

The Hill Country, including Gillespie County, faces wildfire risk when dry fuels and wind combine. Burn bans are common during drought. Check the Gillespie County website or the Texas A&M Forest Service before burning anything outdoors. Home insurance in wildfire-prone areas can be expensive or hard to get.

Flash floods are also a serious hazard. Hill Country creeks can rise in minutes after heavy rain, and low-water crossings flood without warning. Texas law prohibits driving around barriers at flooded crossings. Breaking that rule can mean a fine of up to $2,000 or up to 180 days in jail. If you are new to the area, learn which roads in your area have low-water crossings and check conditions before driving in heavy rain. The Texas Department of Transportation's DriveTexas site posts road conditions.

Source to confirm: Texas A&M Forest Service — Wildfire Risk in Texas

More Gillespie County notes

Property Tax

Two Different Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Gillespie County

Gillespie County has two separate offices for property taxes, and it matters which one you call.

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Property Tax Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Property Tax Bill

If your home is your main residence, you can apply for a homestead exemption to lower your tax bill.

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Agricultural Appraisal

Farm and Ranch Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

Landowners using property for farming, ranching, or wildlife management may qualify for much lower property taxes based on what the land produces.

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Water Wells

Groundwater in Gillespie County Is Managed by a Local District

If you drill a water well in Gillespie County, you must deal with the Hill Country Underground Water Conservation District.

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