What the Dallas County Housing Authority does

The Dallas County Housing Authority (DCHA) is a public agency that runs housing programs for low-income residents across unincorporated Dallas County — the areas outside Dallas city limits. It does not serve people living within Dallas city proper, which is covered by the City of Dallas Housing Authority instead. DCHA administers Section 8 vouchers, public housing properties, and other federal housing programs funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The agency's main job is to connect people who cannot afford market-rate rent with landlords willing to accept vouchers or to place them in public housing properties that DCHA owns and maintains. It also handles inspections of rental units, processes rent payments, and manages waiting lists for its programs.

Key Takeaways

  • DCHA serves unincorporated Dallas County only; if you live in Dallas city limits, you need the City of Dallas Housing Authority instead.
  • The agency runs Section 8 voucher programs and public housing, both funded by HUD and both with long waiting lists.
  • You can contact DCHA directly to learn about current programs, waiting list status, and what documents you will need to bring.
  • DCHA inspects rental units to may support they meet housing quality standards before a voucher can be used there.
  • The waiting list for Section 8 vouchers often closes when it reaches capacity, and reopening dates are announced on DCHA's website.

Section 8 vouchers through DCHA

A Section 8 voucher is a federal subsidy that covers part of your rent; you pay the difference. DCHA holds the vouchers and distributes them to people on its waiting list. The waiting list is typically very long — sometimes years — and DCHA closes it when it reaches a certain size. When the list reopens, the agency announces the dates on its website and through local media.

To get on the waiting list, you must meet income limits set by HUD, which change yearly and depend on family size. You will also need to provide proof of income, citizenship or legal residency, and a Social Security number for each household member. DCHA staff can tell you the current income limits and what documents to bring when you call or visit in person.

Once you receive a voucher, you have a limited time to find a rental unit. The landlord must agree to accept the voucher, and DCHA must inspect the unit to confirm it meets housing quality standards — things like working plumbing, heat, and no safety hazards. If the unit passes, DCHA pays the landlord a portion of the rent each month, and you pay the rest.

Public housing properties managed by DCHA

DCHA also owns and operates public housing apartments and townhomes in unincorporated Dallas County. These are an alternative to Section 8 vouchers. Public housing has its own waiting list, and like Section 8, it requires you to meet income limits and provide proof of residency and income.

Rent in public housing is set at 30 percent of your household income, so it adjusts if your income changes. DCHA handles maintenance and repairs on the properties. The waiting list for public housing can also be long, and you can be on both the Section 8 list and the public housing list at the same time.

How to contact DCHA and get on a waiting list

You can reach the Dallas County Housing Authority by phone, mail, or in person at their main office. The agency's website lists current phone numbers, office hours, and the address. When you call, ask whether the waiting list for the program you are interested in is open, because this changes throughout the year.

If the list is open, DCHA will tell you what documents to bring and when you can come in. Bring originals or certified copies — not photocopies — of your ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), proof of residency, and Social Security cards for all household members. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring proof of legal residency.

You can also ask DCHA staff whether you might be on a waiting list already from a previous process. Some people explore years earlier and forget they are waiting; DCHA can check this for you.

Income limits and rent calculations

HUD sets income limits for Section 8 and public housing programs each year, and they vary by family size and by county. A family of four in Dallas County will have a different limit than a family of four in another county. DCHA publishes these limits on its website or can tell you over the phone whether your household income falls within the range.

If you are accepted into Section 8, your rent contribution is typically 30 percent of your gross monthly income, though DCHA may adjust this in certain cases. In public housing, rent is always 30 percent of income. If your income drops, your rent drops; if it rises, your rent rises. You will need to report income changes to DCHA so the rent can be recalculated.

Housing quality standards and inspections

Before DCHA will pay a landlord on your behalf, the rental unit must pass a housing quality standards (HQS) inspection. An inspector checks for working heat, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical systems, and the absence of lead paint hazards, mold, pests, and structural damage. The unit must also have adequate space — generally one bedroom per person, plus a living room.

If a unit fails inspection, the landlord has a set time to make repairs. Once repairs are done, DCHA re-inspects. If the landlord does not make repairs in time, you cannot use that unit and must find another one. This is why it is important to choose a rental unit in good condition and to report maintenance problems to DCHA quickly.

What to do if you are denied or removed from a program

DCHA can deny you from a program or remove you from one if you do not meet the rules. Common reasons include income that exceeds the limit, failure to provide required documents, or a criminal history that disqualifies you under federal rules. DCHA must give you a written reason for the denial or removal.

If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to request a hearing. DCHA will explain this process in the denial letter. You can also contact a local legal aid organization to discuss your options; many offer free help to low-income people facing housing issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I contact DCHA or the City of Dallas Housing Authority?

If you live in unincorporated Dallas County — outside Dallas city limits — contact DCHA. If you live within Dallas city limits, contact the City of Dallas Housing Authority instead. You can check your address on the Dallas County Appraisal District website or call your city or county to confirm which jurisdiction you are in.

How long does it take to get a Section 8 voucher?

Wait times vary widely depending on how many people are on the list and how many vouchers become available. DCHA can tell you the current average wait time when you call. Some people wait months; others wait years. You can ask to be added to the list even if you do not need a voucher right now.

Can I use a Section 8 voucher outside Dallas County?

Section 8 vouchers can sometimes be used in other counties, but you must get DCHA's permission first and the receiving housing authority must have available vouchers. This is called portability. Ask DCHA about portability rules if you plan to move.

What happens if my landlord wants to evict me while I have a Section 8 voucher?

Your landlord must follow the same eviction process as for any tenant, but DCHA may be able to help. Contact DCHA when ready if you receive an eviction notice. Some local organizations also offer emergency rental help or legal aid for eviction cases.

Can I own my own home and still get a Section 8 voucher?

No. Section 8 vouchers are for renters only. If you own your home, you would not be may be able to access for a voucher. DCHA can discuss other programs that might help if you own property.