City of Mingus, Texas

Title III – Public Safety

Adopted by Ordinance No. 2025-__, effective ________ 2025

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Chapter 3.01 – General Provisions

Sec. 3.01.001 Purpose

This Title establishes provisions for the protection of life, health, and property, and governs the operation of public safety services within the City of Mingus.

Sec. 3.01.002 Authority

The City exercises authority under its home-rule charter and the Texas Local Government Code to adopt and enforce regulations necessary for public safety and emergency preparedness.

Sec. 3.01.003 Definitions


Chapter 3.02 – Police and Law Enforcement

Sec. 3.02.001 Law Enforcement Services

The City of Mingus contracts or coordinates with the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office and other regional agencies for law enforcement services. Peace officers acting within City limits shall have full authority to enforce state and local laws.

Sec. 3.02.002 Municipal Ordinance Enforcement

Officers are authorized to issue citations or effect arrests for violations of City ordinances and to file such cases with the Mingus Municipal Court.

Sec. 3.02.003 Mutual Aid

The City may enter into mutual aid agreements with nearby jurisdictions to provide or receive assistance during emergencies or major incidents.

Sec. 3.02.004 Police Cooperation

All citizens are encouraged to assist in maintaining public order and to promptly report suspicious activity or crimes to law enforcement authorities.


Chapter 3.03 – Fire Protection and Prevention

Sec. 3.03.001 Fire Services

Fire protection and emergency response within the City shall be provided by the Mingus Volunteer Fire Department or other agency designated by City Council.

Sec. 3.03.002 Open Burning

Sec. 3.03.003 Fire Hydrants and Access

Sec. 3.03.004 Fireworks

The discharge or sale of fireworks within City limits is prohibited except under special permit for public displays approved by the Fire Chief and City Council.


Chapter 3.04 – Emergency Management

Sec. 3.04.001 Emergency Management Authority

The Mayor shall serve as Emergency Management Director and may delegate operational authority to a designated Emergency Coordinator. The City participates in the Palo Pinto County Emergency Management Plan and regional alert systems.

Sec. 3.04.002 Local Disaster Declarations

In accordance with the Texas Disaster Act, the Mayor may declare a local state of disaster and issue emergency orders, including evacuation, curfews, or temporary closures, as necessary to protect public health and safety.

Sec. 3.04.003 Emergency Operations Center

The City shall maintain an emergency contact and coordination point, which may be located at City Hall or other designated site during disaster response operations.

Sec. 3.04.004 Continuity of Government

In the event of a declared emergency, the City Council may temporarily relocate its meeting place, delegate limited authority, and take necessary actions to continue municipal operations.


Chapter 3.05 – Public Health and Nuisance Abatement

Sec. 3.05.001 General Provisions

The City may take action to prevent or abate public health hazards, unsafe conditions, or nuisances that endanger life or property within City limits.

Sec. 3.05.002 Hazardous Conditions

Unsafe buildings, chemical spills, or environmental hazards may be declared a danger to public safety. The City may order evacuation, secure the site, or require remedial action by the responsible party.

Sec. 3.05.003 Enforcement

Violations of this Chapter may result in municipal citations, civil abatement, or cost recovery as authorized by law.


Chapter 3.06 – Enforcement and Penalties

Sec. 3.06.001 Enforcement

The City Administrator, peace officers, and other authorized personnel shall enforce the provisions of this Title and coordinate with county and state agencies as necessary.

Sec. 3.06.002 Penalties

Unless otherwise sptitle3-public-safety.htmlecified, violations of this Title are misdemeanors punishable by fines not exceeding $500 per offense. Offenses involving public safety or health hazards may be fined up to $2,000 as permitted by law.

Sec. 3.06.003 Continuing Violations

Each day that a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.

Sec. 3.06.004 Severability

If any section or provision of this Title is found invalid, the remainder shall remain in full force and effect.


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