Administration & Regulatory Affairs

Franchise Administration

The City of Houston’s Franchise Administration collects franchise fees from electric and gas utilities, municipally-franchised cable television providers, commercial solid waste transporters, network facilities franchises (non-Chapter 283 fiber networks), railroad spur track franchises and businesses operating under right-of-way encroachment ordinances. In addition, the section collects fees owed under Chapter 66 of the State Utilities Code (state-franchised cable and video providers), under Chapter 283 of the Local Government Code (state certificated telecommunications providers) and under Chapter 284 of the Local Government Code (network nodes). In connection with these duties, the Franchise Administration coordinates audits and compliance reviews, and actively monitors state and federal legislation and administrative proceedings that impact these fees.

Valerie Berry

Valerie Berry
Deputy Director

Contact Franchise Administration

Valerie Berry, Assistant Director
Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department
611 Walker, 13th Floor
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 832.393.8510
E-Mail: valerie.berry@houstontx.gov

ARA Divisions