Adopt-a-Highway

The original Adopt-a-Highway program began right here in Texas in 1985. Since then, it’s grown into a nationally and internationally recognized litter-prevention effort, saving taxpayers’ dollars and keeping our rights of way clean.

Adopt-a-Highway currently has approximately 3,400 participating groups across the state, and we salute those thousands of individuals who dedicate their time to actively make a difference and keep Texas beautiful.

Check out the Adopt-a-Highway radio spot and be inspired to go the extra two miles for Texas.

Adopt-a-Highway is a Texas-born program that allows volunteers to adopt stretches of state-maintained roadway to conduct litter pickups.

Interstate and high traffic highways are not eligible for the Adopt-a-Highway program.

Businesses interested in interstate highway pickups with the Sponsor-a-Highway program can visit www.texassponsorahighway.com or call (800) 200-0003.

Get Involved

It’s our volunteers who keep this Texas-born program going strong, and your help is needed now more than ever. Participation is simple:

You adopt a two-mile stretch of highway for a minimum of two years. Note: Interstate highways are not eligible for adoption.
You agree to pickup litter four times per year (more in some areas due to heavy traffic).
Adopt-a-Highway signs will be posted with your group’s name at your adopted section.
Adopt-a-Highway will provide your volunteers with safety vests, litterbags and safety training.
You bask in the glory of claiming a piece of Texas pride.

Who Should Adopt?

Individuals, families, youth organizations, businesses (large and small), civic and non-profit organizations, religious groups, fraternities, sororities, schools…everyone should take pride in our beautiful state and Adopt-a-Highway.

Memorial Adoptions

Individuals and groups can adopt sections of roadway to memorialize individuals who have died as a result of a collision on the state highway system. The recognition sign may include the phrase “in memory of,” the name of the person in whose memory the section is adopted, and the name of the adopting group. Please contact an Adopt-a-Highway coordinator for more information.

Why Adopt?

Texas is growing by leaps and bounds, and the surging population means more cars on our roadways and, unfortunately, more trash.
Although nearly 90 percent of litter on Texas highways is removed by paid contractors, volunteer efforts significantly reduce litter cleanup costs and save taxpayers money.
It's a free, easy way for groups to help beautify their communities.
Motorists respond. Seeing volunteers at work resonates with would-be offenders.

Application

Interested in participating in the program? Read the program guidelines below and fill out an application to contact Adopt-A-Highway today! You can also reach your local coordinator with any questions.