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Eminent Domain

A legal research guide on the state and federal laws for eminent domain.

General Information


About This Guide

This guide was created to provide an overview to eminent domain law in the state of Texas. Links to sections of the Texas Constitution, the Texas Government Code, and the Texas Property Code that deal with eminent domain as well as resources that provide "plain English" explanations of the Texas law are provided.

Texas and Federal Law

Below you will find references to areas of the Texas Constitution, Texas Government Code, Texas Property Code, and federal law that govern eminent domain and issues related to eminent domain. If you find these statutes difficult to understand, you may want to view the "Understanding the Law" resources on this page or speak to an attorney.

Understanding the Law

Because Texas and federal law may not be easy to understand, below you'll find a collection of resources that help to explain the law in simple terms.

Who Can I Contact?

While most condemnation proceedings take place in court, landowners facing pipeline condemnation may want to review the page below for contact information for the Texas Railroad Commission.

E-Books Available from the State Law Library

If you have a library account in good standing, you can check out an OverDrive e-book title or access our remote databases. Don't have a library account? Texas residents can register for a library account from home! Learn more about how to register from home.

Below are some e-book titles that may help you with your research on eminent domain.

Books Available from the State Law Library

Below are some of the library resources that can provide further guidance on this topic. The Texas State Law Library has many other resources in addition to the highlights we present below. Please call us at (512) 463-1722 if you have any questions about these materials.