Here are some resources I've compiled to guide you regarding Wildlife Management and obtaining-transferring AG Status and related Tax discounts (often called Ag exemption) when buying and managing rural land here in Texas.

Are you a hunter or landowner wanting to trap or hunt your land?
Check here for your County Seasonal Allowance and Restrictions
https://tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/hunting/seasons/county-listing/

Check here for general Hunting and Fishing Regs in the State Of Texas
https://tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/

To file for your AG status you will need to send your county Tax office & or appraisal office some forms,
I suggest you send these to your county by the end of the yr.- AFTER you purchase the property and County clerk has filed the sale documents- typically at least a few weeks.
Form 1-D-1 is required to transfer the AG status from prior owner to you, for the lower tax valuation.

*primary form- pgh 4 you can get prior years' info from your county CAD website

1-D-1 Open Space Ag Application https://comptroller.texas.gov/forms/50-129.pdf

if you will do the Wildlife mgmt also file this wildlife management plan in the first year you own the property      
https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdforms/media/pwd_885_w7000_open_space_agric_valuation_wildlife_mgmt_plan.pdf
THEN subsequent years you will file the Wildlife management report
https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdforms/media/pwd_888_w7000_wildlife_management_appraisal_report.pdf
If it already has timber status, then the folks at the County Tax/Appraisal office may have other forms; here is a great resource:
https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/timberharvesting/

As far as Ag status (not truly 'exemptions'), there are options with crops-leasing, livestock, timber growth-harvest, or wildlife management (what I do on my land)....here is a link to TX Parks and Wildlife and info on those.

Well Water, Ponds, Water Capture, Aquifers

Service providers; drillers ~$25-60 per foot ; generally at least $4000-5000 minimum as of 2025
            depending on rock/soil and accessibility you may be 100-300 feet or over 2000' deep a few miles away. Don't assume since you may be near a pond or lake that you easily can dig a well nearby- it doesn't work that way.
Estimate with liners, pipe, tanks, pumps you'll total around $100 per foot; and perhaps more in difficult soil/rock with all your equipment when finished

Test kits- if you find a home with a well- this may be good to have on hand….
with most, you can do a prelim test onsite, then send in a sample
Cost of the kit often covers the lab work- then they email you the results

After all that, you may qualify for Sales tax exemption on many related purchases  for your 'farm' or 'ranch'. Here is where to apply for a Ag & Timber Registration number-which you will provide to suppliers, like Lowes, Tractor Supply, etc for some equipment, feed, etc....If you are buying a tractor, ranch Side X Side, or other equipment, that too is often untaxed, If you have a 'farm truck' or 'farm trailer' meeting certain conditions, you may receive a discount on your annual vehicle registration as well. - be sure to read all the allowances and details on the Comptroller website and forms, to assure you are in compliance.


Here is where to go:
https://comptroller.texas.gov/
 



https://security.app.cpa.state.tx.us/

 

Feel free to reach out to us for guidance or questions about land management


Bruce W . Carr
www.LoneStarLand.us
https://www.youtube.com/@LoneStarLand
Let's Video Chat
214-770-6954    call-text    877TEXAN24 (83926)
2244 CR 1264 Pittsburg, Tx 75686
 TEXAS Real Estate Broker# 693884
State of Texas; Notary Public #13339619-0
2004-2022  ASHI Certified Inspector;  Ret.
2000-2022  TREC Prof Inspector 5821; Ret. 
2008-2010  Lone Star ASHI President American Society of Home Inspectors
2007-2008  Lone Star ASHI Vice President www.ASHITexas.org
2004-2022  Certified Applicator -  Ret.        Texas Structural Pest Control Service
2012 Code Certified Residential Energy Inspector 8086001
2010 Post Tension Institute- Level 1 Certified 91209008 www.post-tensioning.org
2010 Certified TREC Instructor # 881079432 xp
2014-2018 CPO-444054 National Swimming Pool Foundation

Check out some great Texas Acreage For Sale

$220,500
82192645 MLS
Located approximately 7 miles west of Mason on Highway 29, this property offers a strong Hill Country setting with paved highway frontage, electricity available, and Honey Creek traversing the tract. The creek provides a natural focal point through the property and adds to its recreational and homesite appeal The property is well suited for a weekend retreat, future residence, recreational use, or small ranch, with convenient access to Mason and less than an hour from Fredericksburg. The location offers easy access to two of the Hill Country's most recognizable communities while maintaining the privacy and rural character of Mason County.

T-1 State Highway 29, Mason
$699,950
21383042 MLS
Rare opportunity to acquire nearly 25 unrestricted acres adjoining the Sam Houston National Forest at the edge of the city limits. Offering a unique combination of privacy, natural beauty, accessibility, and development potential, this versatile property is well suited for commercial or residential development, a rental community, private estate, or long-term investment. The gently sloping terrain features mature trees, a natural sendero, and a peaceful, park-like setting, providing an attractive canvas for thoughtfully designed development. Electricity and sewer are already onsite, including both 18-inch and 8-inch sewer lines, providing valuable infrastructure for future development. Paved road frontage offers convenient access and further enhances the property's usability. An existing agricultural exemption also helps reduce property holding costs. Despite its secluded setting, the property is strategically located near Sam Houston State University, Huntsville amenities, and major highway connections, offering convenient accessibility while remaining outside city zoning restrictions. Whether envisioned as a residential community, commercial project, income-producing development, private retreat, or legacy property, this exceptional acreage offers a compelling combination of location, infrastructure, flexibility, and natural character. Schedule a private tour to experience the possibilities firsthand.

1 Johnson Rd, Huntsville
$1,300,000
3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 21382899 MLS
19 ACRES, AG EXEMPT, UNINCORPORATED TARRANT COUNTY, TWO LIVABLE RESIDENCES AND CURRENT REAL ESTATE TAXES OF LESS THAN $3,000 PER YEAR! Opportunities like this are getting harder and harder to find in Tarrant County! Located in Azle ISD, this peaceful and picturesque property offers an incredible combination of land, improvements, existing infrastructure and future possibilities. With no known deed restrictions and a location outside incorporated city limits, bring your vision! The main residence is an approximately a 2,400-square-foot home offering 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, a spacious living area with wood-burning stove, oversized kitchen, full laundry room, office and covered porches. Additional improvements include central HVAC, a newer roof and an impressive 42-panel solar system. A second approximately 750-square-foot residence provides even more flexibility and is a current rental property. The existing infrastructure adds tremendous value. The property currently includes ONE WATER WELL, THREE SEPTIC SYSTEMS and FIVE RV HOOKUPS. Step outside and enjoy the reason people move to the country — mature trees, privacy, open Texas skies, gorgeous sunsets and star-filled nights. An approximately TWO-ACRE POND and seasonal creek add to the property's natural beauty and character. Multiple access points and extensive frontage along Tenderfoot Trail. Multiple outbuildings are already in place, including a 30' x 50' metal garage with three roll-up doors and electricity, a 30' x 50' very well insulated greenhouse and additional storage buildings. Horses and livestock are welcome. The main residence sits on approximately one acre that is not AG exempt. Whether your dream is to create a family compound, establish a working homestead, build additional residences, explore an RV or mobile-home development, create a tiny-home community, establish a business location or simply enjoy your own Texas countryside, THIS IS A PROPERTY YOU NEED TO SEE.

5944 B Tenderfoot Trl, Fort Worth
$211,990
21380970 MLS
15 acres of open, usable land just outside of Meridian, Texas. This mostly flat tract provides plenty of room to build, bring your animals, or enjoy a little extra space in the country. The property is primarily open with mature trees surrounding the property lines, providing privacy while still leaving plenty of usable acreage. Electricity is already on site, and water is available. With no known restrictions, the property provides flexibility for a variety of uses. The land is also located outside of the floodplain and is just minutes from Highway 22, providing convenient access to Meridian and the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a future homesite, recreational property, or land to hold as an investment, this tract provides a great combination of usable acreage, utilities, privacy, and accessibility.

Tbd 15 Acres County Road 4120, Meridian
$265,000
21382943 MLS
Discover the perfect setting to build your dream home on this beautiful 10 acre property in Perrin, Texas. This listing is two lots combined, both at which can be purchased separately at 5 acres each or together for 10 acres. Lot 13 and 14. Offering a peaceful country setting with plenty of room to spread out, this property features a private pond, an existing old barn that adds character to the land, and a private water well already on site. With 10 acres to make your own, there is ample space for a custom home, shop, pool, animals, gardens, additional home or additional outdoor improvements. The pond creates a picturesque focal point, while the open acreage provides flexibility for a variety of homesite and property layouts. Enjoy the privacy and space of country living while still being within convenient driving distance of Weatherford and surrounding communities. Whether you're looking to build a full time residence, create a weekend retreat, or simply enjoy your own piece of Texas land, Goodnight Trail offers a great opportunity to bring your vision to life.

1009 Goodnight Trl, Perrin
$1,299,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 21359937 MLS
Lovingly known as “Savannah” by its current owners, this stately 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath Georgian estate sits on nearly 15 private acres, offering timeless elegance, privacy, and Southern charm. A long, tree-canopied drive leads to the classic columned façade and welcoming entry. Inside, a grand staircase, rich wood floors, soaring ceilings, and abundant natural light set the tone. Multiple living and entertaining spaces offer flexibility for everyday living and gathering with family and friends. The wildlife-exempt acreage is fenced and ready to enjoy, with mature trees, open spaces, abundant wildlife, and a seasonal creek with a peaceful sitting area—the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the surroundings. A workshop provides space for hobbies, projects, or additional storage. With no HOA, low taxes, and a location just minutes from Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Savannah offers the privacy of a country estate with the convenience of being close to town.

10299 Paddy Hamilton Rd, Belton
$595,500
21382414 MLS
A rare offering of 27 rolling acres in Athens, combining natural beauty, income-tax-friendly ag exemption status, and turnkey functionality. A spring-fed creek traces the southern boundary while a small lake adds a peaceful focal point to the property — ideal for fishing, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the view. The gently rolling terrain offers an ideal building site for a future home, and the property fronts FM 753 for easy, direct access. A 1,125 sq ft barndominium, built in 2021, makes this property truly move-in ready — live on site while you design and build your dream home, rather than commuting to manage construction from afar. The barndominium features a full bathroom and a loft for flexible living or storage space, plus covered RV parking with full electric and sewer hookups on both sides of the barn — ideal for guests, contractors, or extended family during your build. With ag-exempt status already in place, a functioning creek and lake, and prime road frontage, this is a rare chance to secure acreage in Athens that works for you now and sets up exactly what you want to build next.

12377 Fm 753, Athens
$1,650,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 21381901 MLS
Welcome to your private Hill Country retreat! Set on 20+ fully fenced, unrestricted acres just 16 minutes from downtown Dripping Springs, offering exceptional privacy and extensive improvements with no HOA. The home sits over 200 yards from the road behind an automatic gate, with no neighboring homes visible. Built by Keith McNabb Custom Homes, the well-maintained 2,178 sq. ft. stone residence features a single-story, split-bedroom layout with 3bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage. The interior includes granite countertops, an oversized island, separate dining room, stained concrete floors, and a stone wood-burning fireplace. The primary suite offers dual vanities, a tiled walk-in shower, and walk-in closet. Enjoy a screened rear porch and covered front porch overlooking native meadows, mature trees, and seasonal wildflowers. The HVAC was replaced in 2025, and bedroom carpet was installed in July2026. The newly constructed 40' x 60' air-conditioned metal shop provides 2,400 sq. ft. of workspace with a finished office, storage loft, sink, dedicated 200-amp service, multiple 220V circuits, high-clearance access, and an approximately 150 sq. ft. climate-controlled concrete vault. An attached 12' x 60' lean-to adds approximately 720 sq.ft. for equipment, trailers, or vehicles. The acreage combines open native pasture with rugged Hill Country terrain. Horse improvements include two covered stalls, a tack-feed room, and a large round pen. Toward the back, a wooded ravine features mature trees, rock formations, trails, and a wet-weather creek. Additional amenities include a chicken coop, private shooting areas, 30,000-gallon rainwater system, aerobic septic, owned solar panels with two Tesla Powerwalls, second gated access, and an active wildlife tax valuation. With potential for additional residential, recreational, business, or investment use, subject to county requirements, this property offers privacy, self-reliance, and flexibility within Dripping Springs ISD.

3501 Pursley Rd, Dripping Springs
$1,200,000
4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 73504313 MLS
Rare opportunity to own approximately 15.3 acres in the Tomball/Montgomery County area with a pond/lake and ample open space. Great potential for a private homesite, family compound, investment, or future development. Property is currently subdivided into approximately 10-acre and 5-acre tracts, with potential for further subdivision subject to applicable requirements. CenterPoint has an approximately 80-foot easement along the Hardin Store Road side near the roadway for power-line infrastructure. Property is being sold AS-IS. Buyer to independently verify acreage, easements, utilities, restrictions, subdivision potential, and intended use. Call Jake Wexler to confirm appointment prior to showing.

28411 Dobbin Huffsmith Rd, Magnolia
$749,000
87168745 MLS
Homestead 4 at The Homesteads at Walker Branch — a Wildlife Community® by Land Within Reach — is 30 acres, more than a third of the community, with the north shore of the six-acre wetland pond, a private half-acre pond and footbridge into a heritage oak grove, open prairie, and a wooded creek corridor. Tree survey notes 82 hardwood trees of significance. Private wildlife-viewing deck. Existing well, cistern, and septic. Electricity and fiber/Starlink available. Horses allowed. A community of 11 total homesteads on 88 acres in Fayette County, professionally restored and managed as native habitat. Certified Texas Prairie. Eligible for ag property tax valuation under wildlife management. No deadline to build. Tours by appointment.

3147 Fm 956, Schulenburg
$449,000
21287897 MLS

6940 Lonesome Rd, Godley
$253,862
41590549 MLS
44+/- Acres in the heart of pine country! This property boasts hardwood lined creek drains, pre-merchantable pine timber, and ample black top road frontage on Lightfoot Road. Within reasonable driving distance to downtown Lufkin. Electricity is available by extension and water available at the road.

00 Lightfoot Rd, Lufkin
$240,000
48946327 MLS

0001 Orchard Dr N, Wharton
$849,900
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 88411827 MLS
Stunning property situated on nearly 19.538 acres of scenic cattle land, featuring a pond, a spacious shop, storage, and a 2-car carport with an epoxy flooring breezeway. The covered back porch showcases stamped concrete, while inside, 5 bedrooms offer versatility - one currently functions as an office and another as a workout room. Charming kitchen and family dining area for gatherings. The primary bath has a tub, separate shower, and a large walk-in closet. Ideal for chickens, 4H or Ag projects, this home boasts with ceramic tile flooring in wet areas and laminate elsewhere. A 40X30 shop, 11X4 breezeway, and approximately 10 acres of hay pasture complete the picture. Enjoy the great outdoors with a covered patio and peaceful views of the countryside fields, and ample space for hobbies and projects. The room dimensions are approx. Verify for accuracy.

599 County Road 295, Garrison
$659,000
21380867 MLS
Tucked off County Road 260 in Gustine, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on 49.15 acres of fenced Texas countryside. Mature oak trees provide shade across the property, and a small spring-fed pond plus a large stock tank give you real water options — for livestock, wildlife, or just the view. The outdoor improvements do the heavy lifting here: a variety of sheds, barns, and storage buildings, plus covered parking — room for equipment, hay, tools, or whatever the land calls for. County road access keeps things easy to get in and out of, while the acreage keeps it private. The home itself offers 2,160 square feet of living space across three bedrooms — a solid country property ready for its next owner to make their own. This property is listed below appraised value. .

699 County Road 260, Gustine
$650,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 47956619 MLS
Dream retreat! This unrestricted 40-acre ranch is your slice of peace, complete with a natural creek, 4-wheeler trails, and ready-to-use hunting posts for the outdoor enthusiast. Two road accesses; private yet easily reached. The semi-new home is a warm haven, blending modern comforts with rustic charm. Imagine gathering around the island open concept kitchen under high ceilings, or relaxing on your huge decked back porch overlooking nature. Cozy features abound: natural wood floors foam insulated, four-zone A/C for perfect comfort in every room, and double-pane windows to keep it quiet and serene. Practical touches like PEX pipes, R-15 insulation, clever armory closets, expansion front deck option, outdoor bathroom, and basement-style storage (1 covered and 1 acclimated). And the best part? You're only 10 minutes from charming Woodville downtown, keeping all your essential services, stores, and amenities close at hand. This is more than a home; it's a cozy, future-proof escape!

610 Private Rd, Woodville
$331,501
21382685 MLS
Located in Fannin County, just minutes to Honey Grove, this 40 acre farm is the perfect size for hunting and weekend retreats. Along the northern boundary of the farm is Wafer Creek which is a major attraction for wildlife along with a great place to spend an afternoon hunting fossils. The property is heavily timbered with a nice pasture on south side of property. Being surrounded by thousands of acres of crop fields, you can be assured of an abundance of quality wildlife. On top of the fantastic opportunities this farm provides, the location could not be better. It is just a 10 minute drive from the future Lake Ralph Hall and 1 hour to McKinney.

Tbd County Road 3550, Honey Grove
$285,000
78958180 MLS
Discover an exceptional +/- 10-acre property nestled in a sought-after location between Franklin and Bryan/College Station. This beautiful land features a perfect blend of half wooded and half cleared areas, presenting a nice future home site on a hill with rolling terrain. Enjoy the convenience of paved road frontage off South FM 46, Robertson County Water and Navasota Valley Electric both available on the property. Bring your horses and livestock to this ideal country setting and make it your dream place!

Tbd S Fm 46 - 10 Acres, Franklin
$364,000
21382565 MLS
Recreational and Agricultural opportunity to own approximately 24 acres just outside of Valley Mills with over 900 feet of road frontage on Highway 6. The property features 3 to 4 acres of live water and more than 1,000 feet of wet-weather creek, along with designated open crop and or pastureland and mixed wooded areas. Excellent tree cover supports an abundance of wildlife and also provides privacy from Highway 6. Easy access and a convenient location, this tract is ideal for recreational, agricultural, weekend RV use with great fishing, hunting, and outdoor enjoyment; the perfect place to unwind! An additional 32+ acres with North Bosque River frontage are available across Highway 6 from the same owner, making this a versatile option for those seeking more land. Great price, minutes from Valley Mills, Waco, Clifton and 1.5 hrs from Dallas.

24+/- ac. TBD 24/- Ac Tbd Hwy 6, Valley Mills
$660,000
21367999 MLS
Residential, Agricultural and Recreational opportunity! 35 acres in the highly desirable Crawford & McGregor area. One of the property’s most valuable features is an existing water meter, particularly significant in an area where obtaining new water service may require costly line upgrades or not be available at any cost. An attractive pipe entrance welcomes you into a beautiful mix of open pasture and extensive tree cover, offering privacy, shade and multiple potential building sites, perfect for building your dream home in the country. The natural beauty and appeal of this property is further enhanced by its large stock tank which attracts birds and wildlife, providing exceptional opportunities for bird watching, fishing and seasonal dove and duck hunting. Two wet weather creeks traverse the property, with approximately 2,200 feet of creek through the middle and front portion of the land and an additional 500 feet along the back. Additional improvements include an installed water meter, electricity at the road and good perimeter fencing, plus three sided hay or equipment shed. Currently under a cattle lease, the property offers excellent grazing and agricultural appeal, while enjoying reduced property taxes thanks to its agricultural exemption status.  Mature trees, open pasture, seasonal wildflowers, abundant wildlife, creeks and the large tank create a peaceful and picturesque setting, as well as providing outstanding hunting and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a private country homesite, small ranch, hunting property or weekend retreat, this 35 acre tract offers a rare combination of water, improvements, privacy and location—all within McGregor ISD and convenient to Crawford, McGregor, Waco, I35, Hwy 84 and Hwy 6. Ag Exempt, Excellent Grazing, Active Water Meter.

000 35 Ac Rattler Hill Rd, Mcgregor
$1,084,600
21363084 MLS
Discover the freedom and privacy of 319± acres in the wide-open country of Truscott, Texas. With no nearby neighbors, this expansive property offers the seclusion buyers seek for a private hunting retreat, recreational getaway, working ranch, or future homesite. Rolling terrain creates character throughout the property, while several level areas provide excellent potential building sites with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Seasonal creeks meander through the acreage, adding natural beauty and creating attractive habitat for area wildlife and an aprox 1 acre lake. Electricity is available at the road, providing a head start for future improvements and water wells are on surrounding ranches. Whether you envision building a secluded country home, creating your own hunting and recreational retreat, raising livestock, or leasing the acreage to a neighboring rancher for grazing, this property offers exceptional versatility. With 319± acres to explore and enjoy, there is plenty of room for hunting, livestock, recreation, ATV trails, and simply escaping the noise and congestion of city life. Bring your vision and make this piece of Texas your own.

2757 County Road 3600, No City
$150,000
21363093 MLS
Wide Open Spaces with Endless Possibilities. Discover 40 acres of beautiful Texas land offering character, privacy, and plenty of room to roam. The diverse terrain features rolling elevations, several level areas ideal for potential building sites, seasonal creeks, and abundant wildlife, creating a property that is as versatile as it is scenic. Electricity is on adjacent property with water wells on surrounding ranches. Whether you envision a private country retreat, weekend hunting getaway, future homesite, or a place to raise livestock and enjoy the outdoors, this acreage provides the space and freedom to make it your own. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, wide-open Texas skies, and the opportunity to create the country lifestyle you've been looking for.

2777 County Road 3600, No City
$429,900
21371958 MLS
Really Beautiful acreage with lots of road frontage. Could be divided into lots or a nice size ranch property. Lovely pond and includes the existing entry. Located outside the City limits but only a short drive into Collinsville to enjoy Parks, restaurants, retail shopping and fun numerous annual community events. Collinsville ISD offers a great education and active sports programs. A short distance to the north is Whitesboro for additional shopping and dining and medical care. Sherman Denison is easily accessible for Major Medical Care. For the outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Texoma to the north and Lake Ray Roberts are both a short drive with endless water, hiking trails and camping activities.

215 Batey, Collinsville
$339,900
21382453 MLS
Opportunity to own approximately 161 acres in Mitchell County, Texas, offering substantial acreage and flexibility for agricultural, recreational, hunting, ranching, or long-term land investment use. Previously utilized for farming, the property is currently vacant and provides an open canvas for a buyer looking to establish their own operation, recreational retreat, or private Texas landholding. Property features include existing fencing in portions, a seasonal creek that carries water during rainfall, and an existing water well. The well has not been utilized in approximately 20 years, and its current condition and functionality are unknown. Buyer should independently evaluate the well for intended use. Seller will retain 50% of the mineral rights currently owned, with the remaining 50% of Seller's mineral interest conveying to Buyer at closing. This large Mitchell County tract offers the space and versatility sought by buyers looking for acreage away from dense development.

Tbd 0 County Road 422, Loraine
Start Your Search

Listings provided by North Texas Real Estate Information Systems (NTREIS). Listing data has been deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate by the MLS.

Last updated: