Native Plants: Arlington vs Keller
How do native plants rules compare between Arlington, TX and Keller, TX?
Arlington and Keller have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington encourages native and drought-tolerant landscaping through water-conservation programs and does not restrict homeowners from replacing turf with native plants. Texas Property Code Section 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving turf. Maintained native plantings are exempt from the 12-inch weed limit if kept in an orderly condition.
View full Arlington rules →Keller, TX
Tarrant County
Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged in Keller. TX Property Code 202.007 blocks HOAs from banning xeriscape and water-conserving turf outright. HOA design review can still apply.
View full Keller rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Keller |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Not required | - |
| HOA Ban | Prohibited by §202.007 | - |
| Weed Ordinance | Managed natives exempt | - |
| Recommended Plants | Cenizo, muhly, salvia, yucca | - |
| Resource | Tarrant County Master Gardeners | - |
| Fact | - | Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is legal citywide and encouraged |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Can my HOA require me to keep a St. Augustine lawn in Arlington?
No. Texas Property Code Section 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant or water-conserving landscaping. The HOA may require a plan and impose reasonable design standards, but cannot mandate a specific thirsty turf grass.
Will I be cited for tall native grasses in my front yard?
Generally no, if the area is clearly a designed landscape feature with clean edges, mulch, or mowed borders. If the area looks neglected and mixes rank weeds like Johnson grass over 12 inches, a notice may be issued. Maintaining deliberate edges helps avoid confusion.
What are the best drought-tolerant plants for Arlington?
Good choices for the North Texas climate include Texas sage (cenizo), lantana, salvia greggii, yucca, agave, Blackfoot daisy, Gregg's mistflower, gulf muhly, little bluestem, and buffalograss. Tarrant County Master Gardeners publish free plant lists tailored to local soils.
Keller FAQ
Can my Keller HOA require a traditional lawn instead of xeriscaping?
No. Texas Property Code 202.007 voids covenants that prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf, though the HOA can still require design review.
Does Keller offer rebates for native landscaping?
Keller itself does not run a rebate program, but regional programs through Fort Worth Water and Tarrant Regional Water District may offer incentives.
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