FAQ
Code Enforcement strives to improve the quality of life for the people of Midland through education and enforcement of all zoning and code regulations on single-family dwellings, commercial properties, and vacant lots.
Code Enforcement does not enforce on-street parking violations or noise complaints. These types of violations fall under the jurisdiction of Midland Police Department (MPD). To report these violations please call non-emergency at (432)685-7108.
To submit a complaint via online: SeeClickFix; via phone: (432)685-7410; or if you have general questions you can call or email at: askcodeenforcement@midlandtexas.gov
Generally, items that are not designed for outdoor use.
Examples:
- Tools
- Car Parts
- Tires
- Household Furniture
When in doubt, report to Code Enforcement for investigation.
No, vehicles are not allowed to be parked on grass/front lawn. Vehicles must be always park on a paved surface.
Currently the maximum height is 18” for grass and weeds but will change to a maximum height of 12” after July 23, 2025.
The property owner and/or tenants are responsible for maintaining the alley or easement free from high grass, weeds, trash, and debris, as well as trimming overhanging tree branches.
No. You have the option to repair or demolish the structure. You may also sell the property. Please note that if you own a property with a substandard structure present you may have the option to sign a consent form for the City to assist with demolition at the costs of manpower and disposal fees. Please call (432)685-7410 to inquire about more information.
All vehicles visible from a public right-of-way not currently registered, wrecked, dismantled, or have flat tires.
All business signage requires a permit prior to erection, major repair, alteration, or relocation of a sign except for routine maintenance or repair. No signage may be in a dilapidated or deteriorated condition. A sign is considered deteriorated if it meets any of the following conditions:
- The message or wording can no longer be clearly read
- The structural support or frame member are visibly bent, broken, dented, or torn
- The sign face is visibly cracked or, in the case of wood and similar products, splintered in such a way as to constitute an unsightly or harmful condition
- The sign or its elements are twisted or leaning or at angles other than those at which it was originally erected (such as may result from being blown or the failure of a structural support)
- The sign or its elements are not in compliance with the requirements of the current electrical code and/or the building code of the city
Zoning
Zoning regulates how land can be used (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.) and helps ensure compatible development across the city.
You can look up your property using our online zoning map or contact the Planning Division for assistance.
You may apply for a zone change, special use designation (SUD), or variance, depending on your specific request. See the Use Chart in Section 11-1-4.03 to see what uses your zoning allows. Be sure to define your use according to the definitions in Section 11-1-2.01.
An SUD allows specific uses not otherwise permitted in a zoning district, such as On-Premises Alcohol Sales and Consumption or Automobile or Other Motorized Vehicle Sales and Services. SUDs required a public hearing and a recommendation to City Council by the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z). They also require a public hearing and two readings by City Council. For more info on SUDs, see Section 11-1-9.07.
Platting
A plat is a legal document that lays out property boundaries, streets, and easements. You need a plat if you're subdividing land, combining lots, or preparing land for development. For more information on the platting process, see Section 11-2-3.
The platting process generally takes 4-6 months depending on submission, timing, and other factors such as drainage reports and public improvements.
No. State law requires a recorded plat before building permits can be issued, unless an exception or deferral is granted.
Long-Range Planning
It’s the City's long-term growth and development guide. It informs decisions about land use, infrastructure, transportation, and housing over a 20–30-year horizon. For more information on the comprehensive plan see Tall City Tomorrow Comprehensive Plan.
It shapes zoning, capital investments, and development priorities. While not regulatory, it informs rezonings and infrastructure planning.
Alcohol Permitting (TABC Sign-Off)
Yes. In addition to a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) license, a Specific Use Designation (SUD) will be required for the sale of all alcoholic beverages for on premise consumption.
Due to state law, alcohol sales are generally restricted within 300 feet of churches, schools, and hospitals. Distances may vary depending on the type of alcohol permit.
Submit a request to the Planning Division along with your site plan. We will verify zoning compliance and spacing during the SUD process. Once the SUD is approved by City Council, the license can be signed.
General
Contact the Planning Division for a pre-development meeting. We'll walk you through zoning, platting, utilities, and permitting requirements. To schedule a predevelopment meet see Predevelopment Meeting Information.
Visit our office, call, or email us. Office hours and contact information are listed on our website. For access to our website see City of Midland Planning Division.
All of our applications can be found on our website. If you wish to view our applications see Planning Division Applications.
The interactive map is a tool used to show such things as zoning, subdivisions, property information, and future land use. If you wish to view the GIS interactive map, see GIS Interactive Map.
Fees vary based of off each type of project. To see our application fees see Planning Fee Schedule.
Planning and Zoning Commission Meetings are held twice a month on Mondays at 3:30 p.m. at City Hall. To see the 2025 meeting schedule see 2025 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Dates.
The Ordinance only allows limited flaring during specific operations and in case of emergency.
The Ordinance allows up to 500 feet before a variance would be required and needing the approval of the City Council.
The role of the committee is to review Oil & Gas applications for (1) technical compliance and (2) administrative completeness.
The City Council approves or denies Oil & Gas Applications. Applications are brought to City Council meeting for public hearing and after thirty days (30) City Council may vote at a regular meeting.
Drilling is allowed twenty-four (24) hours without time constraints.
The Ordinance 8769 has jurisdiction only for those permitted wells located in the city limits.
Contact the Oil & Gas Officer listed on the notice at the provided number. Leave your name and contact information for voicemail.
Contact the Oil & Gas Officer at 432-552-8690. Leave your name and contact information for voicemail.
Last Updated: 07/02/2025