Why Some Texas Houses Can’t Give Out Candy This Halloween
Halloween stresses me out; porch lights used to be the signal for trick-or-treating, but now it feels like a guessing game.
Now, I just found out that in Texas, some houses are legally required to sit out of Halloween completely. So how are parents supposed to know which doors their kids shouldn’t knock on?
When is it illegal to pass out candy?
Texas has a “no candy” law prohibiting convicted sex offenders from handing out candy on Halloween.
Canva
Most parents are so focused on costumes and candy that they don’t realize these protections are happening in the background. But knowing about the law is only part of the picture. Parents can also take an extra step to make Halloween safer: check the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry before heading out.
How to Look It Up
Here’s how Texas families can quickly check their neighborhood before trick-or-treating:
- Visit the official site: https://sor.dps.texas.gov/PublicSite/Search
- Type in your city, ZIP code, or even a specific street.
- Review the interactive map to see any registered offenders along your planned route.
It takes just a few minutes, and it can help you decide which houses to skip.
Halloween safety tips
The “no candy law” is one of those Halloween rules that most families never talk about, even though it’s been enforced for years.
So while you’re planning out costumes and candy routes this year, keep those safety measures in mind. As Halloween night approaches, if a good scare is what you’re after, then enter for a chance to win tickets to one of the most terrifying corn mazes in South Texas.
Win Tickets to One of Texas's Most Terrifying Haunted Corn Mazes10 of the Biggest New Laws in Texas
More than 800 new Texas laws are taking effect but these 10 stand out. From schools and taxes to housing and healthcare, here’s what will impact you most.
Gallery Credit: Canva
15 Iconic Snacks Banned in Texas
Over a dozen iconic snacks are suddenly banned in Texas due to a crucial ingredient. Find out which popular foods are off the shelves and why the FDA’s decision will change snack aisles forever.
Gallery Credit: Amazon