reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter B. Surveys › Section 21.013. Surveys Not on a Navigable Stream

Sec. 21.013.  SURVEYS NOT ON A NAVIGABLE STREAM.  Surveys that are not made on navigable streams shall be in a square as far as lines previously surveyed will permit.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2355, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter B. Surveys › Section 21.014. Survey for Division Line

Sec. 21.014.  SURVEY FOR DIVISION LINE.  (a)  Before running a division line between two settlers or occupants claiming land, the surveyor shall give written notice to the interested parties.
(b)  A survey made contrary to the true intent and meaning of this section is invalid.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2356, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter C. Field Notes › Section 21.041. Field Notes of a Survey of Public Land

Sec. 21.041.  FIELD NOTES OF A SURVEY OF PUBLIC LAND.  The field notes of a survey of public land shall state:
(1)  the county in which the land is located;
(2)  the authority under which the survey is made and a true description of the survey;
(3)  the land by proper field notes with the necessary calls and connections for identification, observing the Spanish measurement by varas;
(4)  a diagram of the survey;
(5)  the State Plane Coordinates based on the Texas Coordinate System of 1927, the Texas Coordinate System of 1983, or an alternative coordinate system adopted under Section 21.0711 values for the beginning point on the survey with appropriate reference to zone, mapping angle, grid distances, acreage and the N.G.S. Station to which the survey is tied;
(6)  the names of the field survey personnel;
(7)  the date the survey was made; and
(8)  the signature of the surveyor.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2356, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 624, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985;  Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 381 (S.B. 1072), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter C. Field Notes › Section 21.042. Surveyor's Certification

Sec. 21.042.  SURVEYOR'S CERTIFICATION.  (a)  The surveyor shall certify officially:
(1)  to the correctness of the survey;
(2)  that the survey was made according to law;
(3)  that the survey was actually made in the field;  and
(4)  that the field notes are duly recorded, giving the book and page.
(b)  If the survey was made by a deputy, the county surveyor shall certify officially that:
(1)  he has examined the field notes;
(2)  he finds them correct;  and
(3)  he has determined that the survey is duly recorded, giving the book and page of record.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2356, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter C. Field Notes › Section 21.043. Lost Field Notes

Sec. 21.043.  LOST FIELD NOTES.  (a)  If the original field notes of an authorized survey are lost or destroyed, the owner or his agent may obtain a certified copy of the record from the county surveyor on making an affidavit of the loss or destruction and filing it in the office of the county surveyor where the survey was recorded.
(b)  The certified copy shall be as valid as the original record and shall secure to the owner all the rights before the commissioner that the original would have secured.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2356, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter C. Field Notes › Section 21.044. Incorrect Field Notes

Sec. 21.044.  INCORRECT FIELD NOTES.  (a)  The commissioner shall have a plain statement of errors in any field notes submitted to the land office, together with a sketch of the map, forwarded by mail, or personally by the interested party, to the surveyor who made the survey, with a request to correct and return the field notes and map.
(b)  The surveyor shall correct and return the field notes and map at once without further charge.
(c)  If the conflict exists only on the map or in the field notes, the surveyor need only officially certify to the facts and furnish a true sketch of the survey with its connections.
(d)  This section does not require the commissioner or a surveyor to make a new survey of land or a portion of the land after a survey of the land is accepted by the commissioner for filing in the official records of the land office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2356, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 160 (H.B. 3340), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.071. Adoption of Coordinate Systems

Sec. 21.071.  ADOPTION OF COORDINATE SYSTEMS.  (a)  The systems of plane coordinates which have been established by the National Oceanic Survey/National Geodetic Survey for defining and stating the positions or locations of points on the surface of the earth within the State of Texas are adopted and will be known and designated as the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 and the Texas Coordinate System of 1983.
(b)  Each system is a separate system and must be used as a separate system.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2357, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.0711. Alternative Coordinate Systems

Sec. 21.0711.  ALTERNATIVE COORDINATE SYSTEMS.  (a)  The Texas Spatial Reference Center at Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi established under Section 88.503, Education Code, may adopt a revised state coordinate system that may be used for purposes of this subchapter under the authority granted to the center as the state's facilitator of the National Spatial Reference System.
(b)  A revised coordinate system adopted under Subsection (a) is an official state coordinate system.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 381 (S.B. 1072), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.072. Purpose and Limitations of Coordinate Systems

Sec. 21.072.  PURPOSE AND LIMITATIONS OF COORDINATE SYSTEMS.  (a)  The only purpose for adopting the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 and the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 is to recognize a system for use in the State of Texas to definitely ascertain positions on the surface of the earth.
(b)  Except as provided in Section 21.041 of this code, the use of a system is not required, and the provisions of this subchapter shall not be construed to set aside or disturb any corner or survey already established.
(c)  The use of the term "Texas Coordinate System" on a map, report, survey, or other document is limited to coordinates based on a Texas Coordinate System as defined in this subchapter.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2357, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 624, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1985;  Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.073. Division of State Into Zones

Sec. 21.073.  DIVISION OF STATE INTO ZONES.  For the purpose of using a system, the state is divided into five zones:
(1)  the North Zone;
(2)  the North Central Zone;
(3)  the Central Zone;
(4)  the South Central Zone;  and
(5)  the South Zone.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2357, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 5, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.074. Area Within Zones

Sec. 21.074.  AREA WITHIN ZONES.  (a)  The area included in the following counties constitutes the North Zone:  Armstrong, Briscoe, Carson, Castro, Childress, Collingsworth, Dallam, Deaf Smith, Donley, Gray, Hall, Hansford, Hartley, Hemphill, Hutchinson, Lipscomb, Moore, Ochiltree, Oldham, Parmer, Potter, Randall, Roberts, Sherman, Swisher, and Wheeler.
(b)  The area included in the following counties constitutes the North Central Zone:  Andrews, Archer, Bailey, Baylor, Borden, Bowie, Callahan, Camp, Cass, Clay, Cochran, Collin, Cooke, Cottle, Crosby, Dallas, Dawson, Delta, Denton, Dickens, Eastland, Ellis, Erath, Fannin, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Franklin, Gaines, Garza, Grayson, Gregg, Hale, Hardeman, Harrison, Haskell, Henderson, Hill, Hockley, Hood, Hopkins, Howard, Hunt, Jack, Johnson, Jones, Kaufman, Kent, King, Knox, Lamar, Lamb, Lubbock, Lynn, Marion, Martin, Mitchell, Montague, Morris, Motley, Navarro, Nolan, Palo Pinto, Panola, Parker, Rains, Red River, Rockwall, Rusk, Scurry, Shackelford, Smith, Somervell, Stephens, Stonewall, Tarrant, Taylor, Terry, Throckmorton, Titus, Upshur, Van Zandt, Wichita, Wilbarger, Wise, Wood, Yoakum, and Young.
(c)  The area included in the following counties constitutes the Central Zone:  Anderson, Angelina, Bastrop, Bell, Blanco, Bosque, Brazos, Brown, Burleson, Burnet, Cherokee, Coke, Coleman, Comanche, Concho, Coryell, Crane, Crockett, Culberson, Ector, El Paso, Falls, Freestone, Gillespie, Glasscock, Grimes, Hamilton, Hardin, Houston, Hudspeth, Irion, Jasper, Jeff Davis, Kimble, Lampasas, Lee, Leon, Liberty, Limestone, Llano, Loving, McLennan, McCulloch, Madison, Mason, Menard, Midland, Milam, Mills, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Pecos, Polk, Reagan, Reeves, Robertson, Runnels, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, San Saba, Schleicher, Shelby, Sterling, Sutton, Tom Green, Travis, Trinity, Tyler, Upton, Walker, Ward, Washington, Williamson, and Winkler.
(d)  The area included in the following counties constitutes the South Central Zone:  Aransas, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bee, Bexar, Brazoria, Brewster, Caldwell, Calhoun, Chambers, Colorado, Comal, DeWitt, Dimmit, Edwards, Fayette, Fort Bend, Frio, Galveston, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Harris, Hays, Jackson, Jefferson, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Kinney, LaSalle, Lavaca, Live Oak, McMullen, Matagorda, Maverick, Medina, Presidio, Real, Refugio, Terrell, Uvalde, Val Verde, Victoria, Waller, Wharton, Wilson, and Zavala.
(e)  The area included in the following counties constitutes the South Zone:  Brooks, Cameron, Duval, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Kleberg, Nueces, San Patricio, Starr, Webb, Willacy, and Zapata.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2357, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.075. Zone Names in Land Description

Sec. 21.075.  ZONE NAMES IN LAND DESCRIPTION.  (a)  As established for use in the North Zone, the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 shall be named, and in any land description in which it is used it shall be designated, the "Texas Coordinate System of 1927, North Zone" or "Texas Coordinate System of 1983, North Zone."
(b)  As established for use in the North Central Zone, the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 shall be named, and in any land description in which it is used it shall be designated, the "Texas Coordinate System of 1927, North Central Zone" or "Texas Coordinate System of 1983, North Central Zone."
(c)  As established for use in the Central Zone, the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 shall be named, and in any land description in which it is used it shall be designated, the "Texas Coordinate System of 1927, Central Zone" or "Texas Coordinate System of 1983, Central Zone."
(d)  As established for use in the South Central Zone, the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 shall be named, and in any land description in which it is used it shall be designated, the "Texas Coordinate System of 1927, South Central Zone" or "Texas Coordinate System of 1983, South Central Zone."
(e)  As established for use in the South Zone, the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983 shall be named, and in any land description in which it is used it shall be designated, the "Texas Coordinate System of 1927, South Zone" or "Texas Coordinate System of 1983, South Zone."
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2358, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.077. Unit of Measurement

Sec. 21.077.  UNIT OF MEASUREMENT.  The unit of measurement in this subchapter has the following values, based on the International Meter established by the National Bureau of Standards:
(1)  one meter = 39.37 inches exactly;
(2)  one U.S. survey foot = 0.3048006096 meter;
(3)  one vara = 33-1/3 inches exactly; and
(4)  one international foot = 0.3048 meter exactly.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2359, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 381 (S.B. 1072), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.078. Terms "X Coordinate" and "Y Coordinate"

Sec. 21.078.  TERMS "X COORDINATE" AND "Y COORDINATE".  (a)  The plane coordinate values for a point on the earth's surface, to be used in expressing the position or location of the point in the appropriate zone, of either system, shall consist of two distances, expressed in U.S. Survey Feet and decimals of a foot or varas or tenths of a vara when using the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 and expressed in meters and decimals of a meter, in U.S. Survey Feet or decimals of a foot, or in varas or tenths of a vara when using the Texas Coordinate System of 1983.
(b)  One of these distances, to be known as the "x coordinate," shall give the position in an east-and-west direction;  the other, to be known as the "y coordinate," shall give the position in a north-and-south direction.
(c)  These coordinates shall be made to depend on and conform to the plane rectangular coordinate values for the monumented points of the North American Horizontal Geodetic Control Network as published by the National Oceanic Survey/National Geodetic Survey, or its successors, and whose plane coordinates have been computed on the systems defined in this subchapter.
(d)  Any station described in this section may be used for establishing a survey connection to either the Texas Coordinate System of 1927 or the Texas Coordinate System of 1983.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2359, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 8, eff. Sept. 1, 1987;  Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 991, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 21 - Surveys and Field Notes › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinate Systems › Section 21.079. Land in More Than One Zone

Sec. 21.079.  LAND IN MORE THAN ONE ZONE.  If a tract of land to be defined by a single description extends from one zone into another of the coordinate zones, the positions of all points on its boundaries may be referred to by either of the zones, the zone which is used being specifically named in the description.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2360, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 616, Sec. 9, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 23.001. Definitions

Sec. 23.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the General Land Office.
(2)  "Land office" means the General Land Office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2367, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.011. Election

Sec. 23.011.  ELECTION.  (a)  A county surveyor is elected to a four-year term as provided by Article XVI, Sections 64 and 65, of the Texas Constitution.
(b)  To be eligible to serve as a county surveyor, a person must be a registered professional land surveyor.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2367, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 29, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.012. Residence

Sec. 23.012.  RESIDENCE.  The county surveyor shall reside in the county.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2367, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.013. Bond

Sec. 23.013.  BOND.  The county surveyor shall execute a bond conditioned on the faithful performance of the duties of the office.  The amount of the bond shall be fixed by the commissioners court and shall be not less than $500 nor more than $10,000.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.014. Deputy Surveyor

Sec. 23.014.  DEPUTY SURVEYOR.  (a)  A county surveyor may appoint a deputy surveyor as he considers necessary.
(b)  The county surveyor shall administer the deputy surveyor's official oath and take his bond in the sum of not less than $500 nor more than $10,000, conditioned on the faithful performance of the duties of the office.
(c)  The deputy may perform all acts authorized or required by law to be done by the county surveyor.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.015. Chain Carriers and Markers

Sec. 23.015.  CHAIN CARRIERS AND MARKERS.  (a)  A county surveyor may employ persons 16 years of age or older as chain carriers or markers.
(b)  The county surveyor shall administer an oath to each of these employees to faithfully perform his duties in accordance with the instructions given him.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.016. Office Location

Sec. 23.016.  OFFICE LOCATION.  (a)  The county surveyor's office shall be located in the courthouse or in a suitable building at the county seat.
(b)  Rent for an office outside the courthouse shall be paid by the commissioners court on showing that:
(1)  the rent is reasonable;
(2)  the office is necessary;  and
(3)  an office is not available at the courthouse.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 23.017. Abolition of Office in Certain Counties

Sec. 23.017.  ABOLITION OF OFFICE IN CERTAIN COUNTIES.  In a county in which the office of county surveyor was abolished by Chapter 315, Acts of the 61st Legislature, Regular Session, 1969 (Article 5298a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes), the commissioners court may, when the court considers it necessary, employ a qualified person to perform a function formerly performed by the county surveyor.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 149, Sec. 25, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.051. In General

Sec. 23.051.  IN GENERAL.  The county surveyor shall perform the duties required of him by law.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.0515. Field Notes, Plats, and Other Documents

Sec. 23.0515.  FIELD NOTES, PLATS, AND OTHER DOCUMENTS.  (a)  In a county in which there is a county surveyor, only the county surveyor may:
(1)  file and record field notes and plats of surveys made in the county and other documents required by law to be recorded in the county surveyor's records;  and
(2)  issue a certificate of fact and certify the correctness of a copy of any document, record, or entry shown by the records of the county surveyor.
(b)  If the county surveyor and each authorized deputy of the county surveyor are absent from the county surveyor's office, the county clerk of the county has unrestricted access to the county surveyor's office and public records and may:
(1)  record field notes, plats, and other documents required to be recorded in the county surveyor's records;  and
(2)  issue a certificate of fact and certify the correctness of a copy of any document, record, or entry shown by the official records of the county surveyor.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1421, Sec. 7, eff. June 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.052. Surveys on Which Patents Are to Be Obtained

Sec. 23.052.  SURVEYS ON WHICH PATENTS ARE TO BE OBTAINED.  The county surveyor shall:
(1)  receive and examine all field notes of surveys made in the county on which patents are to be obtained;
(2)  certify to the same according to law;  and
(3)  record the field notes in a book to be kept by him for that purpose.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.053. Record of Field Notes

Sec. 23.053.  RECORD OF FIELD NOTES.  (a)  The commissioners court shall furnish the county surveyor all necessary books of record.
(b)  The county surveyor shall record in a well-bound book all the surveys in his county, with the plats that he may make, whether private or official.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.054. Right of Inspection

Sec. 23.054.  RIGHT OF INSPECTION.  At all times, any interested person, agent, or attorney may examine the books, papers, plats, maps, or other archives belonging to the office of the county surveyor on the payment of the fee set by law.  In addition to the fees allowed by law for field work, the county surveyor may charge 20 cents per 100 words for the record.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2368, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.055. Bound Records

Sec. 23.055.  BOUND RECORDS.  If the commissioners court considers it necessary, it may order that the county surveyor's record be transcribed in good and substantial books by the county surveyor or special deputies sworn to make true copies of the record.  For this service, not more than 15 cents per 100 words shall be allowed to be paid out of the county treasury.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2369, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.056. Lost Records

Sec. 23.056.  LOST RECORDS.  (a)  If the maps, field notes, or other records of the county surveyor's office, or any part of them, are lost or destroyed, the county surveyor shall obtain from the commissioner a transcript of the lost records, certified to as required by law.
(b)  The certified copy has the same force and effect as the original.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2369, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.057. Custody of Records in Absence of County Surveyor; Powers and Duties of County Clerk

Sec. 23.057.  CUSTODY OF RECORDS IN ABSENCE OF COUNTY SURVEYOR;  POWERS AND DUTIES OF COUNTY CLERK.  If a county does not have a county surveyor, the county clerk of the county:
(1)  is the legal custodian of the county surveyor's records;
(2)  shall take charge of all records, maps, and papers belonging to the county surveyor's office and safely keep them in the county clerk's office;  and
(3)  may make any certificate and certify any copy that the county surveyor would be authorized to make or certify.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2369, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1421, Sec. 8, eff. June 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.058. Delivery of Records to Successor

Sec. 23.058.  DELIVERY OF RECORDS TO SUCCESSOR.  On removal from office or at the expiration of his term of office, the county surveyor shall deliver to his successor all records, books, papers, maps, and other things pertaining to his office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2369, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.059. Failure to Survey

Sec. 23.059.  FAILURE TO SURVEY.  If a county surveyor fails, neglects, or refuses to make a survey or have a survey made, within one month after the amount of lawful surveying fees are tendered to him by a person legally entitled to the survey, he and his sureties shall be liable on his official bond to the injured parties in the amount of damages or injury the parties may sustain by reason of the neglect, refusal, or failure.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2369, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle B - Surveys and Surveyors › Chapter 23 - County Surveyors › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 23.060. Fees for Recording and Issuing Documents

Sec. 23.060.  FEES FOR RECORDING AND ISSUING DOCUMENTS.  (a)  The fees for recording documents in the county surveyor's records, for issuing certificates, and for making certified copies are the fees provided by law.
(b)  The county surveyor is entitled to fees for all documents recorded by the county surveyor or a deputy of the county surveyor and for all certificates and certified copies issued by the county surveyor or a deputy of the county surveyor.
(c)  The county clerk of the county is entitled to all fees for documents recorded by the county clerk and for all certificates and certified copies issued by the county clerk under Sections 23.0515(b) and 23.057(3).
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1421, Sec. 9, eff. June 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 31.001. Definitions

Sec. 31.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Appraiser" means a state-certified or state-licensed real estate appraiser who:
(A)  is employed by or contracts with the land office;  and
(B)  performs professional valuation services completely and in a manner that is independent, impartial, and objective.
(2)  "Board" means the School Land Board.
(3)  "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the General Land Office.
(4)  "Division" means the asset management division of the General Land Office or any other division delegated the duties of the asset management division by the commissioner.
(5)  "Evaluation report" means the annual report prepared by the commissioner as provided by Subchapter E.
(6)  "Exchange" means an exchange of equal value or an exchange of real property accompanied by consideration.
(7)  "Governor's report" means the report prepared by the commissioner as provided by Section 31.157.
(8)  "Institution of higher education" means the Texas State Technical College System, the Southwest College for the Deaf, or an institution of higher education, excluding a public junior college, as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code.
(9)  "Land office" means the General Land Office.
(10)  "Market value" means the value of real property determined by an appraisal of the real property performed by an appraiser.
(11)  "Political subdivision" means a municipality, county, public school district, levee improvement district, municipal utility district, or any other special purpose district authorized by state law.
(12)  "Real estate transaction" means a sale, lease, trade, exchange, gift, grant, or other conveyance of a real property interest.
(13)  "Real property owned by the state" means any interest in real property in the possession of the state or a state agency, including real property held in trust by a state agency.
(14)  "State" means the State of Texas.
(15)  "State agency" means a board, commission, department, institution, office, or other agency of state government, including an institution of higher education but excluding a special purpose district or authority.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2370, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 1, eff. June 20, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 2 (H.B. 1101), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 31.002. Exemption From Certain Real Estate Transaction Laws

Sec. 31.002.  EXEMPTION FROM CERTAIN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION LAWS.  (a)  Unless the statute specifically states that the statute applies to the land office, the following statutes do not apply to the land office:
(1)  a statute that would require the land office to provide a notice or disclosure to a buyer of real property; and
(2)  a statute relating to the sale, purchase, or financing of real property by an executory contract, including a contract for deed or other similar sale.
(b)  This section does not affect the application of a statute described by Subsection (a)(2) to a party involved in a transaction with the land office.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 234 (H.B. 1853), Sec. 1, eff. May 25, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.011. Land Office Established

Sec. 31.011.  LAND OFFICE ESTABLISHED.  There shall be one General Land Office located in Austin, which shall register all land titles emanating from the state if not prohibited by the constitution.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.014. Commissioner's Liability

Sec. 31.014.  COMMISSIONER'S LIABILITY.  The commissioner and a surety on a bond authorized under Chapter 653, Government Code, are responsible to any person who is injured by removal, withdrawal, or alteration of any record or file in the land office, unless the commissioner is able to show that the act has taken place with the permission of the person owning the file or record.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 285, Sec. 20, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.015. Chief Clerk

Sec. 31.015.  CHIEF CLERK.  (a)  The commissioner shall appoint a chief clerk.
(b)  The chief clerk may perform any of the duties of the commissioner if the commissioner is sick, is absent, dies, or resigns.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 285, Sec. 21, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.016. Abstract Clerk

Sec. 31.016.  ABSTRACT CLERK.  The commissioner shall designate one of his clerks as the abstract clerk and shall assign to him the special duty to correct the abstracts of patented, titled, and surveyed real property required to be kept in the land office to reflect errors, changes caused by cancellation of patents and in county lines, and the creation of new counties and to add new patented surveys on the date they are patented.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 3, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.017. Receiver

Sec. 31.017.  RECEIVER.  With the consent of the governor, the commissioner shall appoint a suitable person to serve as receiver for the land office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 285, Sec. 31(28), eff. Sept. 1, 2003;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 3, eff. June 20, 2003.
Reenacted by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 728 (H.B. 2018), Sec. 14.002, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.018. Translator

Sec. 31.018.  TRANSLATOR.  (a)  The commissioner shall appoint a translator who thoroughly understands the Spanish and English languages.
(b)  The translator shall take the official oath.
(c)  The translator shall translate into English any laws and public contracts relating to titles to real property and any original titles or papers which are written in the Spanish language and which are filed in the land office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 285, Sec. 22, eff. Sept. 1, 2003;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 4, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.019. Surveyors

Sec. 31.019.  SURVEYORS.  (a)  The commissioner shall appoint a chief surveyor and as many assistant surveyors as authorized by law.
(b)  The chief surveyor and the chief surveyor's assistant surveyors shall draw and complete county maps.
(c)  The chief surveyor and the chief surveyor's assistant surveyors shall perform drafting and other duties required by the commissioner for the benefit of the state or individuals.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2371, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 5, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 31.021. Reimbursement for Notary Public Expense

Sec. 31.021.  REIMBURSEMENT FOR NOTARY PUBLIC EXPENSE.  The land office may reimburse an employee for the fees and costs of a bond that are required for appointment as a notary public if the employee provides notary public service as part of the employee's duties with the land office.
Added by Acts 1979, 66th Leg., p. 70, ch. 45, Sec. 1, eff. April 11, 1979.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.051. General Duties

Sec. 31.051.  GENERAL DUTIES.  The commissioner shall:
(1)  superintend, control, and direct the official conduct of subordinate officers of the land office;
(2)  execute and perform all acts and other things relating to public real property of the state or rights of individuals in public real property which is required by law;
(3)  make and enforce suitable rules consistent with the law;  and
(4)  give information when required to the governor and the legislature relating to public real property and the land office.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2372, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 6, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.0515. Duties Related to the Alamo Complex

Sec. 31.0515.  DUTIES RELATED TO THE ALAMO COMPLEX.  (a)  The land office shall:
(1)  employ staff necessary to preserve and maintain the Alamo complex and contract for professional services of qualified consultants;
(2)  commission as a peace officer an Alamo complex ranger who has been certified as qualified to be a peace officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; and
(3)  prepare an annual budget and work plan, including preservation, future construction, and usual maintenance for the Alamo complex, including buildings on the Alamo property, their contents, and their grounds.
(b)  An Alamo complex ranger commissioned as a peace officer under this section has the powers, privileges, and immunities of a peace officer while carrying out duties as an Alamo complex ranger under this section.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1046 (H.B. 3726), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 984 (S.B. 2612), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.052. Custody of Records

Sec. 31.052.  CUSTODY OF RECORDS.  (a)  Books, accounts, records, papers, maps, and original documents relating to real property titles which are termed archives by law shall be the books and papers of the land office under the control and custody of the commissioner.
(b)  The commissioner shall keep in the land office a copy of each permit, lease, or other paper issued under law.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2372, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 7, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.053. Filing Papers

Sec. 31.053.  FILING PAPERS.  (a)  The commissioner shall adopt the most convenient method for filing papers and preserving records of the land office.
(b)  A list of all papers in each file shall be retained in the file.
(c)  Each employee who files a paper shall place his name on it.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2372, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.054. Public Access to and Removal of Papers

Sec. 31.054.  PUBLIC ACCESS TO AND REMOVAL OF PAPERS.  (a)  Any person who desires to examine any paper, record, or file must make a written request on a form and according to procedures prescribed by the commissioner.  The commissioner may establish procedures as reasonably necessary to maintain the integrity of the records.
(b)  No transfer or deed which may be a link in any chain of title to any certificate on file in the land office may be removed by any person, but the commissioner shall deliver to the interested person on demand certified copies which shall have the same force and effect as the originals.
(c)  If the genuineness of any original paper is questioned in a suit, the commissioner, on order of the court in which the suit is pending, shall deliver the original paper to the proper person and shall retain a certified copy of the paper which will have the same force and effect as the original if the original is lost.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2372, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 8, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.056. Revision, Compilation, and Printing of Abstracts

Sec. 31.056.  REVISION, COMPILATION, AND PRINTING OF ABSTRACTS.  (a)  The commissioner may prepare a revision and compilation of the various volumes of the abstracts of patented, titled, and surveyed real property which were previously made by the land office.
(b)  The various counties of the state may be apportioned into districts for the purpose of revising and compiling the abstracts and the abstracts of each of the districts may be compiled in a separate volume.
(c)  The commissioner may distribute to the officers of the state who require its use but have not previously received a set, one complete set of the abstracts, as supplemented, of patented, titled, and surveyed real property.  The commissioner may distribute to officers of counties who are required to use abstracts copies of supplementary abstracts.
(d)  The commissioner may provide the abstracts and supplementary abstracts electronically.
(e)  The commissioner may make available a sufficient number of volumes and supplementary abstracts of patented, titled, and surveyed real property to meet the demand.
(f)  The land office shall pay the cost of the abstracts and the supplementary abstracts from its appropriated funds.
(g)  Copies of the abstracts and supplementary abstracts may be sold at a reasonable price to any person who applies for a copy.  The commissioner shall deposit any money received from the sale of surplus volumes and supplementary abstracts to the credit of the General Revenue Fund.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2373, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 8, eff. June 20, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 866 (H.B. 2971), Sec. 1, eff. June 10, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.058. Receiving Funds

Sec. 31.058.  RECEIVING FUNDS.  (a)  The receiver shall receive funds required by law to be paid to the commissioner and on request shall give to each person who deposits money a receipt stating the amount, the name of the person, and a description of the purpose of the remittance.
(b)  If funds are received which are of a general character in advance of fees and dues, it shall be stated.
(c)  The receiver shall be responsible to the state or individual for the funds.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2373, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 8, eff. June 20, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.059. Receiver's Books

Sec. 31.059.  RECEIVER'S BOOKS.  (a)  The receiver shall keep books in which the following shall be entered:
(1)  each deposit separately;  and
(2)  the name of the person.
(b)  The receiver shall keep letters and other vouchers filed in neat and regular order and number corresponding with the books of the office.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1083, Sec. 25(128), eff. June 17, 2011.
(d)  In the books of the office, the receiver shall keep separate columns indicating the amount of funds paid.
(e)  On removal from office or resignation, the receiver shall turn over the books of the office, accounts, and money to the appointed successor or to the commissioner and shall receive a receipt for them.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2373, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1423, Sec. 14.01, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 8, eff. June 20, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1083 (S.B. 1179), Sec. 25(128), eff. June 17, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Natural Resources Code › Title 2 - Public Domain › Subtitle C - Administration › Chapter 31 - General Land Office › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 31.062. Embezzlement

Sec. 31.062.  EMBEZZLEMENT.  If a suspended receiver is found guilty of embezzlement, the receiver shall be removed from office and a suit shall be instituted to recover on a bond authorized under Chapter 653, Government Code.
Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2374, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 285, Sec. 23, eff. Sept. 1, 2003;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1091, Sec. 33(1), eff. June 20, 2003.
Reenacted and amended by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 728 (H.B. 2018), Sec. 14.003, eff. September 1, 2005.