Texas asbestos rules for homeowners
Texas's asbestos rules don't apply to a single private residence or a small apartment building of four or fewer units, unless it's part of a larger project. The state doesn't say homeowners may do the work themselves, though, and asbestos waste still has to go to a landfill that's authorized to take it.
Doing it yourself
- The Texas Department of State Health Services' asbestos rules state: "This chapter does not apply to a single private residence or a single apartment building with no more than four dwelling units, except for a residential building subject to NESHAP" (25 TAC §296.1).
- DSHS also says: "One private residence is not subject to the asbestos NESHAP regulations and notification is not required" (DSHS notification FAQ).
- Exceptions: homes on the same site under one owner, or homes that are part of a larger project (such as clearing several houses), can be covered.
There's no explicit statement that homeowners may remove asbestos themselves: the home is simply outside the rules. EPA's general advice still applies: removal should be done by trained, accredited professionals.
Hiring a contractor
Work in public buildings needs DSHS-licensed asbestos professionals. For a private home, Texas law doesn't require it, but EPA recommends hiring workers who are trained and accredited. DSHS licenses can be checked on the DSHS asbestos program site.
Disposal
- Texas classes discarded materials containing asbestos as special waste (30 TAC §330.3).
- Friable (regulated) asbestos waste may go only to landfills authorized to accept it, in "tightly closed and unruptured containers or bags" or wrapped in at least six-mil plastic (30 TAC §330.171).
- Non-friable asbestos waste can go to more landfill types. The state's guidance is to contact the landfill directly first.
See asbestos disposal.
Sources
- 25 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 296 (Texas Asbestos Health Protection Rules, effective July 8, 2021)
- Texas DSHS asbestos program and notification FAQ
- 30 TAC §330.3 and §330.171 (TCEQ waste rules)
This page summarizes the rules; it isn't legal advice. Last reviewed October 29, 2026.