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Harris County, TX Code Violation Reporting: Common Violations (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

File complaint with
Harris County Public Health Administrator
Abatement window
31 days after notice served
First-offense fine
$50 to $200
Repeat offense
$200-$1,000 fine, up to 6 months jail
Coverage
Unincorporated Harris County only

Summary

Harris County residents can report a suspected public nuisance in unincorporated areas by filing a written complaint with the county Administrator, who investigates and can order abatement.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Harris County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

4.2 A complaint to abate a public nuisance under these procedures may be initiated by any person by written complaint filed with the Administrator. 4.3 The Administrator shall make a record of all complaints received. 4.4 The Administrator shall review the complaint and make a determination as to whether a public nuisance exists.

Source: Houston Common ViolationsView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Harris County's Nuisance Abatement Procedures, any person can report a suspected public nuisance in unincorporated Harris County by filing a written complaint with the Administrator, the Director of Harris County Public Health. The Administrator logs every complaint received, investigates by inspecting the property after showing proper identification, and decides whether a nuisance actually exists. If one is confirmed, the county serves a Notice to Abate giving the owner until the 31st day after service to fix the condition or request a hearing. An unresolved nuisance can trigger county abatement, a lien on the property, and criminal fines.

Violations & Fines

Letting a confirmed public nuisance sit unabated 30 days after notice is a misdemeanor under Texas Health and Safety Code Section 343.012: $50-$200 for a first offense, $200-$1,000 plus up to six months in jail for a repeat conviction, with each day counted as a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report a nuisance in unincorporated Harris County?
File a written complaint with the Harris County Public Health Administrator, who logs it, investigates, and determines whether a public nuisance exists under the county's Nuisance Abatement Procedures.
What happens after I file a complaint?
If the Administrator confirms a nuisance, the county serves a Notice to Abate giving the owner until the 31st day after service to fix it or request a hearing.
Does this process cover the City of Houston?
No. It applies only to unincorporated Harris County; Houston enforces violations through its own separate municipal code and code enforcement department.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Harris County

How to ReportSome RestrictionsResponse TimesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Smoke DetectorsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree TrimmingSome RestrictionsHoliday Decorations: Lawn Ornament RulesSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Window SignsLight Restrictions

All Harris County rules

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