Arlington vs Mansfield
How do native plants rules compare between Arlington, TX and Mansfield, TX?
Arlington and Mansfield 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 →Mansfield, TX
Tarrant County
Mansfield supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Texas Property Code 202.007 protects homeowner rights to install xeriscape even in HOA communities, and the city encourages regional water conservation.
View full Mansfield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Mansfield |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Law | - | TX Property Code 202.007 |
| Xeriscape Protection | - | SB 198 (2013) |
| Regional Program | - | WaterIsAwesome.com rebates |
| Artificial Turf | - | Permitted |
| Education Resource | - | Tarrant County Master Gardeners |
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.
Mansfield FAQ
Can my Mansfield HOA make me keep a traditional lawn?
No. Texas Property Code 202.007 protects homeowner rights to install drought-resistant landscaping and xeriscape. HOAs may enforce reasonable landscape plan standards but cannot require traditional turfgrass.
What native plants grow well in Mansfield?
North Texas natives include Texas sage, lantana, yaupon holly, live oak, cedar elm, little bluestem, and buffalo grass. These plants thrive in local soil and climate with minimal supplemental watering.
Are there rebates for water-wise landscaping in Mansfield?
Yes. The regional WaterIsAwesome.com program offers rebates for turfgrass conversion, drip irrigation upgrades, and water-efficient landscaping. Mansfield residents qualify as part of the Tarrant Regional Water District service area.
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