Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code and Section 107.70 of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code are considered the “Texas Nuisance Abatement Statutes”.  These statutes permit law enforcement agencies to close any piece of property involved in illegal activities, including violations of the Texas Penal Code, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code and the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

Once a property and/or location is determined to be a common nuisance, and after successful suit, it is closed for a period of one year, unless a penal bond is posted.  The nuisance laws can have a positive effect on locations that law enforcement agencies have spent numerous man hours policing.  The nuisance abatement process supplements traditional policing by providing an addition tool to remedy illegal activity at specific properties and/or locations within the city of Austin.

What kind of illegal activity can be addressed by the nuisance abatement unit?

• prostitution
• obscenity
• gambling
• organized criminal activity
• delivery, possession, manufacture or use of a controlled substance
• discharge of a firearm
• alcohol violations

What type of property can be closed?

• businesses of all kinds
• private residences
• apartments
• motels
• convenience stores
• any type of property 

Contact Information

Sgt. C. Renfro #3362 512-974-9223  Courtney.Renfro@austintexas.gov

Detective Ewa Wegner #4623 512-974-6028 Ewa.Wegner@austintexas.gov

Detective Martina Schaan #2747 512-972-6030 Martina.Schaan@austintexas.gov

Civilian Specialist Alan Schwettmann #5826 512-972-6034 Alan.Schwettman@austintexas.gov