Local laws and regulations in Texas: Statewide sales tax rate. Open carry firearm laws. Property tax rates. No state income tax. DUI regulations. Landlord-tenant rights. Homestead exemption rules. Business registration requirements. Water usage restrictions. Vehicle registration process.
Statewide sales tax rate.
The Statewide Sales Tax Rate in Texas is set at 6.25%, providing a uniform taxation level across the state. However, when considering additional local sales taxes, which can vary between 0% and 2%, the maximum combined sales tax rate can reach up to 8.25%. For more detailed insights and guides about tax rates in Texas, you can visit the TaxCloud Texas State Guide, which offers comprehensive information for both individuals and businesses navigating the complexities of sales taxes within the state.
Open carry firearm laws.
In Texas, individuals can openly carry handguns if they are at least 21 years old and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law. They must carry the handgun in a belt or shoulder holster, and there are specific locations where carrying a handgun is prohibited, such as schools, hospitals, and certain government facilities. For more comprehensive guidelines, visit the Open Carry page of the Killeen, Texas website.
Property tax rates.
In Texas, property tax rates are set by local governments, including school districts, cities, and counties, with no state property tax. The rates are determined based on the no-new-revenue tax rate and voter-approval tax rate, and taxpayers can find detailed information and estimates on their county's Truth in Taxation website, which also includes public hearing details and feedback opportunities.
No state income tax.
Texas does not levy a state income tax, but it compensates for the lost revenue through higher sales and property taxes, with a state sales tax rate of 6.25% and a maximum combined state and local sales tax rate of 8.25%. For more detailed information, visit the Investopedia article about states with no income tax.
DUI regulations.
In Texas, DUI regulations are referred to as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), with a BAC limit of 0.08% for drivers 21 and older, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Penalties include jail time, fines, and license suspension, varying in severity based on the number of prior convictions and other circumstances. For more detailed information on these laws, you can visit the Driving Laws website, which provides comprehensive and up-to-date resources on the subject.
Landlord-tenant rights.
In Texas, landlord-tenant laws mandate that landlords provide habitable conditions, ensure quiet enjoyment, and adhere to specific procedures for repairs, security deposits, and evictions. Tenants have the right to report issues without fear of retaliation, live in a safe environment, and terminate leases under certain conditions, with both parties bound by mutual obligations outlined in the Texas Property Code.
Homestead exemption rules.
To qualify for a Homestead Exemption in Texas, you must own and reside in your home, have a Texas driver's license or ID with a matching address, and apply through your county appraisal district. The exemption can reduce property taxes, with additional benefits for those 65 or older, disabled, or veterans, and it only needs to be filed once unless your status changes. For more details, visit the Texas Law Help website.
Business registration requirements.
To register a business in Texas, you must file a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State, obtain necessary licenses and permits, and acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if applicable. Additional requirements include a sales tax permit, unemployment insurance tax, and other local and state-specific regulations. For a comprehensive guide, visit the detailed instructions available at How to Register a Business in Texas, which outlines each step clearly for new entrepreneurs.
Water usage restrictions.
In Texas, water usage restrictions are closely regulated to ensure efficient utilization and minimize waste. This includes mandatory Water Conservation Plans that must be updated every five years for specific entities, with guidelines established by both the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and local municipalities. The City of Dallas, for example, has a water conservation ordinance that limits outdoor watering to twice a week, prohibits watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April to October, and requires rain and freeze sensors in automatic sprinkler systems. Meanwhile, in Highland Village, the implementation of drought regulations involves four phases of water restrictions such as prohibitions on watering during certain days and times, as well as bans on water usage that results in runoff or waste. Similarly, Springtown enforces rules that restrict outdoor sprinkler watering during peak hours in the warmer months and mandate rain sensors in new irrigation systems to prevent unnecessary water usage. All these measures reflect Texas's commitment to managing its water resources sustainably and effectively, especially during periods of drought or high demand.
Vehicle registration process.
To register a vehicle in Texas, new residents must obtain Texas vehicle insurance, pass a vehicle inspection at a certified DPS station, and apply for registration at their local county tax-assessor collector office within 30 days of moving. This process involves providing necessary documents and paying the required fees. The base registration fee is $51.75, in addition to any other applicable county fees and sales tax-related fees. For more detailed information, visit the official Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.