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SB 1333

Relating to the unauthorized entry, occupancy, sale, rental, lease, advertisement for sale, rental, or lease, or conveyance of real property, including the removal of certain unauthorized occupants of a dwelling; creating criminal offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; authorizing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Bryan Hughes and 4 co-sponsors

Texas law now criminalizes squatting and unauthorized property occupation while enabling faster removal of trespassers and penalties for fraudulent property transactions, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #crimes--againstproperty(i0175) #fraud(s0166) #lawenforcement(i0510) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #sheriffs(s1013)
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Bill Summary · SB 1333

Legislative bill overview

SB 1333 strengthens Texas property law by creating new criminal offenses and penalties related to unauthorized entry, occupancy, and transactions involving real property. The bill addresses squatting and unlawful property occupation while establishing mechanisms for property owners to remove unauthorized occupants and regulate property dealings.

Why is this important

Rising squatting incidents in Texas cities have prompted lawmakers to provide clearer legal tools for property owners to reclaim their land and prevent fraudulent property sales or rentals. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, and establishes both criminal consequences for violators and procedural mechanisms for expedited removal of unauthorized occupants.

Potential points of contention

  • Removal procedures: Critics may raise concerns about due process protections for individuals removed from properties, particularly regarding adequate notice and opportunity to be heard before eviction
  • Definitional clarity: Questions may arise about what constitutes "unauthorized occupancy" in edge cases (e.g., disputed tenancies, family members, persons claiming adverse possession rights)
  • Fee structure: The authorization for fees related to enforcement and removal could disproportionately burden lower-income property owners or create barriers to accessing legal remedies

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

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