Mesquite's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Mesquite, Texas, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Weed Ordinances

Mesquite, Texas caps weeds, grass, and other unsightly growth at eight inches. Let it grow taller and you commit a misdemeanor; after seven days' notice the city mows the lot, bills you, and perfects a lien on the property.

Key details: Maximum height: 8 inches. Governing section: City Code § 10-127(b). Penalty: Misdemeanor, fine per § 1-6. City abatement: City mows after 7-day notice. Lien: 10% annual interest, § 10-132.

High weeds or grass over eight inches is a misdemeanor fined under section 1-6. Uncorrected within seven days of notice, the city mows the property and files a lien accruing 10 percent annual interest.

Native Plants

Mesquite allows native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Texas Property Code 202.007 protects xeriscape and drought-resistant yards from blanket HOA bans.

Key details: Native and xeriscape: Native and xeriscape landscaping allowed and encouraged. TX Property Code: TX Property Code 202.007 protects drought-resistant yards from HOA bans. Measurement: 12 inches. HOAs may still: HOAs may still require a submitted landscape plan. North Texas Municipal: North Texas Municipal Water District offers plant lists and rebates.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Mesquite gives residents more flexibility on native plants.

Artificial Turf

Mesquite allows artificial turf in residential yards. HOAs cannot impose a blanket ban but may set quality and placement standards under Texas law.

Key details: Prohibition: No city permit required for typical residential artificial turf. Prohibition: Cannot be installed in right-of-way or drainage easements. Limit: HOAs may limit turf to back yards and require plan approval. Authority: Blanket HOA bans restricted under updated TX Property Code 202.007. Boundary: Permeable base required to prevent runoff onto neighbors.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Mesquite gives residents more flexibility on artificial turf.

Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is encouraged in Mesquite. Texas Property Code 202.007 prevents HOAs from banning rain barrels, and the city supports collection for irrigation.

Key details: Permit/License: Rain barrels allowed without a city permit. Restrictions: TX Property Code 202.007 blocks HOA bans on rainwater systems. Fees/Costs: Rainwater equipment is exempt from state sales tax. Permit/License: Indoor plumbed systems need backflow prevention and plumbing permits. Pools/Water: Mesquite water is supplied by North Texas Municipal Water District.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Mesquite gives residents more flexibility on rainwater harvesting.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Mesquite gives residents more room on landscaping rules. 3 of the 4 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that Mesquite can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, which shows when its source was last checked.