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Bill

Bill

HB 583

Relating to the regulation of fences near certain reservoirs by certain counties.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ray Lopez and 1 co-sponsor

HB 583 authorizes Texas counties to regulate fence construction near reservoirs to manage safety, access, and water infrastructure protection.

Left pending in subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 583

Legislative bill overview

HB 583 grants certain Texas counties regulatory authority over fence construction and placement near designated reservoirs. The bill appears to address land management and safety concerns around water infrastructure by allowing counties to establish standards for fencing in these sensitive areas.

Why is this important

Reservoirs serve critical functions for water supply, flood control, and recreation, making perimeter security and access management significant public interests. Clear regulatory authority over fencing can help counties balance public safety, property rights, and environmental protection around these valuable resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights concerns: Landowners near reservoirs may oppose restrictions on their ability to fence their property as they choose
  • Jurisdictional clarity: Questions about which counties qualify and how regulatory authority interacts with state water agencies and federal oversight
  • Enforcement and costs: Uncertainty about who bears the cost of compliance and how violations would be enforced against existing fences

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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