Texas Prohibits Locals From Restricting Building Materials
A new Texas law prohibits local restrictions on building materials and restricts cities’ ability to impose aesthetic standards on new construction. Supporters of the law, including most state lawmakers and building industry associations said it would provide a more open market for building materials that could reduce construction costs for buyers and builders.
The law sets nationally accepted codes as the only standards for cities to regulate construction within their boundaries. Many Texas city governments and civic groups criticized the measure for its effects on their oversight and the ability to establish visual guidelines within their boundaries.