| Cover | Mar. 02, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 2, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-737 |
| Entity Registrant Name | TEXAS PACIFIC LAND TRUST |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000097517 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-0279735 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | TX |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1700 Pacific Avenue |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2900 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Dallas |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75201 |
| City Area Code | 214 |
| Local Phone Number | 969-5530 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Sub-shares in Certificates of Proprietary Interest (par value $0.03-1/3 per share) |
| Trading Symbol | TPL |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
