Elon Musk and his company SpaceX have made Texas their home base, especially around the Starbase launch facility near Brownsville. Now, it seems Musk wants even more control — including over what property owners can do with their land nearby.
Starbase and the Surrounding Area
Starbase, Texas, is a unique place mostly inhabited by SpaceX employees, many living in travel trailers near the launch site. Elon Musk himself owns a modest home close to the facility.
Nearby is Boca Chica Village, a beautiful stretch of beach known for its delicate ecosystem and historical significance — it was the site of the last battle of the Civil War. Locals and visitors love the area, but Musk insists the beach be closed during rocket launches for safety reasons. While that’s understandable, it looks like Musk wants to go much further.
What Elon Musk Wants to Do
Musk wants to close the beaches whenever he chooses, not just during pre-agreed launch times. Recently, residents of Boca Chica received a notice saying:
“THE CITY OF STARBASE IS HOLDING A HEARING THAT WILL DETERMINE WHETHER YOU MAY LOSE THE RIGHT TO CONTINUE USING YOUR PROPERTY FOR ITS CURRENT USE, PLEASE READ THIS NOTICE CAREFULLY.” — CNBC
The “City of Starbase” is largely controlled by SpaceX staff and executives. This means Elon Musk and his team may soon decide how the land and properties in the area can be used — potentially overriding the rights of current property owners.
Why Is This Concerning?
If this plan passes, it won’t just affect the beach. It could mean SpaceX gains control over the entire Boca Chica area, pushing out longtime residents and visitors. This sets a troubling precedent about private companies taking over public or privately owned land.
Spaceports like Spaceport America and Blue Origin’s facility are located in remote areas, far from natural or historical treasures. So why does Starbase need to control such a precious and fragile beach environment?
Some wonder if this move is about building luxury condos, exclusive viewing spots, or even yacht docks for wealthy space visitors and business partners. If so, the local community and nature could pay a heavy price.