By 1907, there were several hundred automobiles in the City of Houston. The build-up of traffic, hit and run accidents and disturbances by frightened animals had to be solved.

In 1907, the City Council passed an ordinance that required registration of vehicles, lights for nighttime driving and the observance of an 8 mph speed limit. Drivers were to drive on the right side of the road and pass on the left, and drivers had to be a minimum of 18 years of age. Automobiles were required to always yield to the right of way to horses. Violators of the new laws would be obliged to pay fines ranging from $5 to $100.