Austin, TX Code Violation Reporting: Common Violations (2026)
Key Facts
- High Grass
- Over 12 inches = violation
- STR Enforcement
- Unlicensed rentals targeted
- Fine Range
- $100-$2,000/day
- Key Codes
- Ch. 25-2 and Ch. 10-6
Summary
Austin's most common code violations include high grass/weeds over 12 inches, illegal short-term rentals, unpermitted construction, junk vehicles, illegal dumping, and property maintenance failures. Austin City Code Chapters 25-2 (zoning) and 10-6 (property maintenance) govern most violations.
Five common code violations on residential properties are: tall grass/weeds; work without a permit; trash and debris; unsanitary conditions; issues with exterior walls. [...] Accumulated Trash/Illegal Dumping - Austin residents may not accumulate trash, debris, brush, filth, carrion, or any other unsightly, objectionable, or unwholesome matter on their property. It is also a code violation to store any material on a vacant lot. [...] Grass/Weeds Over 12 Inches - Grass and weeds must be kept below 12 inches. Letting grass and weeds grow taller than 12 inches creates unsanitary conditions and is also a code violation. City code ( City of Austin Code 10-5, Article 2 ) requires that grass and weeds be maintained below 12 inches. [...] Construction Without a Permit - Property owners or their agents must get a permit to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, demolish or move a structure.
Full Breakdown
The most frequently reported code violations in Austin include: high grass and weeds exceeding 12 inches, illegal or unlicensed short-term rentals (a major enforcement focus given Austin's STR licensing requirements), unpermitted construction or additions, junk or inoperable vehicles visible from public right-of-way, illegal dumping and improper trash disposal, substandard housing conditions, and property maintenance failures (peeling paint, damaged structures, overgrown lots). Austin also enforces sign regulations, illegal parking on unpaved surfaces, and creek/waterway buffer violations. The city's Code Compliance team publishes a list of common violations to educate property owners. Austin City Code Chapter 25-2 (Land Development Code) and Chapter 10-6 (Property Maintenance) are the primary enforcement tools.
Violations & Fines
Fines range from $100 to $2,000 per day depending on violation type and repeat status. Habitual offenders face enhanced penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common code violation in Austin?
What are the fines for code violations in Austin?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Austin
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Austin to another location·View the Texas code violation reporting overview
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