Texas Porch
Mineral Rights Stories & local character

Oil and gas production is active in King County

King County Home & Property

Oil was discovered in King County in 1943. Since then, production has been a steady part of the local economy. In Texas, mineral rights can be separated from surface rights — meaning the person who owns the land may not own the oil and gas underneath it.

Before buying property in King County, check whether the mineral rights are included or have been severed. If they are severed, an energy company could have the legal right to drill on your land. The Texas Railroad Commission regulates all oil and gas operations in the state. You can search active permits and well records for King County on the Railroad Commission's website.

Content last revised 2026-07-11

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More stories and useful context near King County

A balanced next shelf: local character first, with practical context close by.

Stories & local character

Deer hunting seasons and bag limits for King County

King County is in Texas Parks and Wildlife's North Zone for white-tailed deer. Know the bag limits and season dates before you go.

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Stories & local character

King County was built on cattle ranching, and still is

King County is one of the most rural counties in Texas and has been dominated by large cattle ranches since the 1880s, including the famous Four Sixes Ranch.

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Practical

Ranch land in King County can be taxed on productivity, not market value

Texas productivity appraisal can lower the tax value of qualifying King County ranch land, but a changed use can bring a three-year rollback tax.

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Stories & local character

Mineral rights can be owned separately from the land in Fort Bend County

In Texas, the owner of oil and gas beneath a property may be a different person from the owner of the land surface.

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Nearby county shelves

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