The town of Starbase, Texas, where Elon Musk's SpaceX operates its rocket development and launch facilities, has issued a notice to some residents cautioning that they may lose the right to continue using their properties for existing purposes. This advisory emerges as the town considers adopting a new comprehensive zoning ordinance and city-wide map.
Formerly known as Boca Chica Village, Starbase is proposing the establishment of a Mixed Use District, which would permit a combination of residential, office, retail, and small-scale service activities. Property owners within this district received formal notices outlining the potential changes and the implications for their current property usage.
The public hearing to discuss the proposed zoning and map is scheduled for June 23, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., to be held at the temporary city hall in Brownsville, Texas. Kent Myers, Starbase city administrator and SpaceX radiation test specialist, signed the notice.
Starbase, officially established in early May 2025 following a local election, functions as a company town predominantly managed by current and former SpaceX employees. Its population is estimated at approximately 500 people, with over half directly employed by SpaceX. The town encompasses a 1.6 square-mile area including the SpaceX launch facilities used to test the Starship rocket.
Recently, SpaceX conducted its ninth Starship test flight from the Texas coast facility, which unfortunately ended in a catastrophic failure, marking the third consecutive setback. Elon Musk emphasized focusing on data analysis and lessons learned from these incidents. The Federal Aviation Administration reported no injuries or public property damage resulting from the test flight.
The Starship rocket system is designed for Earth orbital transport and future missions to the Moon and Mars, aligning with Musk's vision for space colonization. Moreover, SpaceX has secured more than $20 billion in government contracts since 2008 and expects substantial revenue from these agreements in the coming years.
Establishing Starbase as a municipality gives SpaceX enhanced authority and flexibility to advance construction, testing, and launches at its Texas complex. Currently, the town is also pursuing permission to close main roads and beaches for launch activities without needing external municipal approvals.
Zoning Notice Highlights
The zoning notification advises residents that, under Texas Local Government Code section 211.006(a-1), their rights to use property in its current manner may be revoked if the ordinance is adopted. The Mixed Use District would redefine permissible activities, potentially affecting existing residential or commercial uses.
Residents and property owners are encouraged to submit written comments by 3:00 p.m. on June 22, 2025, or present their views at the public hearing.
For further details, visit the City of Starbase website or contact City Administrator Kent Myers.
