An Emergency Services District (ESD) is a political subdivision of the State of Texas created under Chapter 775 of the Texas Health and Safety Code to provide fire protection, emergency medical services (EMS), or both to a defined area. ESDs are typically formed in unincorporated or underserved areas through a citizen petition, a feasibility review by the County Commissioners Court, and approval by a majority vote in an election.
Once established, ESDs are governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, who are either appointed by the County Commissioners Court or elected by voters in specific cases. These boards are responsible for setting the budget, managing services, approving contracts, and ensuring compliance with state law. ESDs may operate their own emergency departments or contract with municipal, volunteer, or private providers to deliver services.
To fund operations, ESDs may levy a property tax up to \$0.10 per \$100 of assessed value and, with voter approval, a sales and use tax of up to 2%, depending on local tax capacity. Revenue may also be generated through service billing, such as ambulance transports. ESDs are independent of city and county governments and are subject to the Texas Open Meetings Act, the Public Information Act, and annual financial reporting requirements.
The purpose of ESDs is to provide reliable, professionally managed emergency response services, particularly in areas where municipalities cannot or do not offer adequate coverage. They are critical to ensuring public safety in rural, suburban, or fast-growing communities across Texas.
Sources:
* Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 775
* Texas Constitution, Article III, Section 48-e
* Texas Comptroller’s Office
* Texas State Association of Fire and Emergency Districts (SAFE-D)
* Texas Local Government Code and Open Meetings Act