Owning property within an extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) can come with a host of restrictions and limitations that many property owners find burdensome. The ETJ allows cities to enforce certain regulations outside their official boundaries, impacting your property’s use, development, and value. Here are compelling reasons to consider freeing your property from the ETJ and the steps to achieve it.
Greater Control Over Your Property
One of the primary reasons to remove your property from the ETJ is to gain greater control. ETJ regulations can limit how you use your land, restricting everything from building specifications to land use changes. By exiting the ETJ, you can make decisions that best suit your needs and plans without excessive external interference.
Increased Property Value
Properties free from ETJ restrictions often see an increase in value. Potential buyers are typically more attracted to properties with fewer regulatory hurdles, providing you with a competitive edge in the market. This freedom can make your property more desirable and marketable.
Simplified Development Processes
Developing property within an ETJ can be complicated and time-consuming process due to the additional layer of regulations. Freeing your property simplifies the development process, making it easier to obtain necessary permits and approvals. This can save you time, money, and frustration.
Reduced Bureaucracy
Navigating city regulations can be a bureaucratic nightmare. Freeing your property from the ETJ reduces the number of governmental entities you must deal with, streamlining your interactions and paperwork. This can lead to faster project completion and fewer regulatory obstacles.
Protecting Your Investment
Removing your property from the ETJ protects your investment by ensuring that future city expansions or changes in city regulations won’t negatively impact your property. It provides a safeguard against unpredictable regulatory environments.
Steps to Free Your Property from the ETJ
Step 1: Understand Your Situation
Make sure you are in the ETJ. Ask your city’s staff to verify that your property address is in the ETJ. All cities publish maps of their limits and the ETJ. You may be able to determine from the map if your property is in the ETJ. Research your local ETJ regulations and understand the specific requirements and processes for removal. Laws vary by city so it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what applies to your property. Fortunately, the Texas Legislature has made it less cumbersome for property owners to remove property from an ETJ with Senate Bill 2038, which was signed into law by the Governor and became effective on September 1, 2023.
Step 2: Choose the Right Solution Package
At Free My Property, we offer various solution packages to meet your needs:
- Essential Package: Provides tools and templates for you to handle the process independently.
- Enhanced Package: We create the petition, and you submit it.
- Comprehensive Package: We handle everything for you, including submission and communications.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare all required documents, such as property deeds, identification, and any relevant supporting documents. Our packages include checklists and templates to ensure you have everything needed.
Step 4: Submit the Petition
Submit the petition to the appropriate city authorities. Our comprehensive package includes notarization and submission services, ensuring your documents are properly filed and followed up on.
Step 5: Monitor and Follow Up
After submission, monitor the progress and respond to any city requests for additional information. Our team can handle this for you, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Freeing your property from the ETJ is an investment in your property’s future. By gaining control, increasing value, and simplifying development processes, you can enjoy the full benefits of property ownership without unnecessary restrictions. Connect with us at Free My Property today.