Wichita Falls's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Wichita Falls, 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.

Grass Height Limits

Wichita Falls enforces weed and grass height limits as a priority code enforcement issue. Grass and weeds exceeding 12 inches are considered a violation. The city actively enforces this year-round.

Key details: Maximum Height: 12 inches. Notice Period: Approximately 10 days. Abatement: City may mow and bill owner. Priority: Actively enforced year-round.

Owners receive notice with a compliance deadline. Failure to comply results in city abatement with costs billed to the property owner, plus administrative fees.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Wichita Falls actively enforces its grass height limits requirements.

Tree Trimming

Wichita Falls requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines at intersections. Trees must provide adequate clearance for pedestrians and vehicles.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: Adequate for pedestrian passage. Street Clearance: Adequate for vehicle passage. Hazardous Limbs: Must be removed promptly. Sight Lines: Must not obstruct intersections.

Failure to maintain tree clearance over public areas may result in code enforcement notices with a compliance deadline.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Wichita Falls does not have a comprehensive tree preservation ordinance for private property. Property owners may generally remove trees on their own land without a city permit, though trees in the public right-of-way are city property.

Key details: Private Property: Generally no permit required. City Trees: Authorization needed for removal. Development: May be reviewed during site plan. Neighbor Trees: Cannot trim past property line.

Unauthorized removal of city trees in the right-of-way may result in fines and replacement requirements.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Wichita Falls gives residents more flexibility on tree removal & heritage trees.

Water Restrictions

Wichita Falls has historically imposed water restrictions during drought conditions. The city may implement staged water conservation measures including designated watering days and hours based on water supply levels.

Key details: Drought Plan: Multi-stage conservation measures. Watering Days: May be designated by address. Time Limits: Restrictions on time of day. History: Has had some of TX's strictest restrictions.

Water restriction violations may result in warnings and fines. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties and possible water service restrictions.

Compared to other cities, Wichita Falls takes a harder line on water restrictions. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Wichita Falls is tougher than many cities when it comes to landscaping rules. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Wichita Falls, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

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