City Secretary's Office


Code Of Ethics:
Lobbyist Registration

On November 9, 2009 the Dallas City Council passed Ordinance 27748 to amend CHAPTER 12A, "CODE OF ETHICS," and Ordinance 27749 to add a section to CHAPTER 15A, "ELECTIONS," of the Dallas City Code. Ordinance 27748, which became effective April 1, 2​010, provides for the development of an automated Lobbyist Registration System (LRS) enabling lobbyists and non-registrants to register with the city of Dallas. Lobbyists registering with the city must pay an annual $300 registration fee. Individuals who do not meet the qualifications of a lobbyist but appear before the city as applicants, property owners, and property purchasers in designated zoning cases and designated public subsidy matters are considered "Non-registrants." These persons must file with the city but are not assessed a registration fee.

Lobbyists desiring to file with the city must input basic information such as name, address, and other contact information. On payment of the $300 fee, the lobbyist will be issued a number providing access to the LRS system. After initial registration, Quarterly Activity Reports are due on April 15 (for the period covering January 1 - March 30) July 15 (for the period covering April 1 - June 30), October 15 (for the period covering July 1 - September 30), and, after renewing of annual registration, January 15 of the next year (for the period covering October 1 - December 31). Lobbyists are not required to file a Quarterly Activity Report if no lobbying activity has taken place during that quarter.

Ordinance 27749, which became effective December 1, 2009, provides provisions to restrict the time in which campaign contributions may be made to city council members by applicants in designated zoning cases and designated public subsidy matters, and by bidders and proposers on city contracts.

If you have questions or need additional information about lobbying or the LRS, please review our List of Frequently Asked Questions. You may also call our office at 214-670-3738, or send an e-mail to the Lobbyist Coo​rdina​tor.

To view the City Secretary's presentation on the Lobbyist Registration System, click here.

To view The City Attorney's Outline of Ordinances 27748 and 27749click here.

To file as a Lobbyist, click here.

To file as a Non-Registrant, click here.

Other Resources:
List of City Officials