How Garland Handles Building Safety: A Practical Guide

Garland maintains 154 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with building safety. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Garland falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Lead Paint

Garland has no separate lead paint ordinance. Federal EPA RRP Rule and Texas DSHS rules govern renovation and abatement in pre-1978 housing.

Key details: Federal Rule: EPA RRP (40 CFR 745). State Rule: 25 TAC Ch. 295. Covered Housing: Built before 1978. City Ordinance: None.

EPA RRP violations carry federal civil penalties up to $37,500 per violation per day. Texas DSHS may assess administrative penalties for unlicensed lead abatement. The City refers complaints to EPA Region 6 and DSHS.

Compared to other cities, Garland takes a harder line on lead paint. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Pest Control

Under Chapter 32 minimum property standards, multifamily and lodging operators must show proof of pest treatment within six months, by a licensed pest control operator.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 32, Art. I. Scope: Multifamily & lodging. Treatment Window: 6 months. State Law: Tex. Occ. Code Ch. 1951.

Failure to maintain pest-free premises or to produce required treatment documentation can result in Code Compliance citations, permit denial or revocation under Chapter 32, and Class C misdemeanor fines up to $500 per day.

The Bottom Line

Garland's building safety rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Garland is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Garland's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.