Annexation allows cities to expand their jurisdiction to enforce land development and zoning laws, helping to control growth and execute their comprehensive plan. This expansion also increases the city's Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) boundaries, which broadens its authority to oversee land subdivision across a wider area. However, the passage of House Bill 347 in 2019 altered how cities in Texas can annex territories. Previously able to annex land unilaterally, cities now need the approval of the residents or landowners in the area considered for annexation. Moving forward, cities have four methods to annex: 1) consent exempt annexation, 2) annexation upon request by a landowner, 3) annexation following a petition in areas with fewer than 200 residents, 4) annexation in regions with more than 200 residents, which requires an election and possibly a petition. Exceptions exist, including strategic partnerships such as those involving Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs).

The steps below outline the process for incorporating property located in the Caldwell extraterritorial jurisdiction into the City limits.
 
 Annexation Procedure PDF.pdf

You may use the City's standard Petition for Voluntary Annexation to begin the process.

Petition for Voluntary Annexation.pdf

For detailed guidance on voluntary annexation procedures, inquiries can be directed to the Office of the City Secretary at 979-567-3271. ext. 106