A police officer in Texas has shut down a lemonade stand operated by two little girls who were trying to raise money for Father’s Day.

Eight-year-old Andria and her seven-year-old sister Zoey set up the stand as they wanted to raise US$100 to take their dad out as a Father’s Day present.

After reaching a quarter of their goal, an Overton police officer showed up and spoke to the two sister’s mother, Sandi Evans, asking if they had a permit.

Sandi told the police officer that she had no permit and was not aware that it would be required for a lemonade stand.

After the exchange, a friend of the family went to Overton City Hall to obtain a permit, the cost of US$150 was waived but staff members informed the friend they would need to contact the health department.

Police Chief Clyde Carter said Overton cops were just following the law.

"We have to follow by the state health guidelines,” he said.

“They have to have a permit if they're going to do the lemonade stands.”

However, Mrs Evans said it was “ridiculous”.

“They’re seven and eight and they’re just trying to make money for their own cause,” she said.