Native Plants: Conroe vs Shenandoah
How do native plants rules compare between Conroe, TX and Shenandoah, TX?
Shenandoah has fewer restrictions than Conroe.
Conroe, TX
Montgomery County
Conroe requires landscaping for new development under Chapter 102 (Vegetation). Mandatory buffer zones require a minimum density of 1 tree every 50 feet. Newly planted trees must be minimum 3-inch caliper for large/medium species or 2.5-inch caliper for small species.
View full Conroe rules →Shenandoah, TX
Montgomery County
Texas Property Code §202.007 protects xeriscaping and native plants from HOA bans. Montgomery County cannot regulate residential landscaping (no zoning). The Woodlands emphasizes native East Texas Piney Woods species.
View full Shenandoah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Conroe | Shenandoah |
|---|---|---|
| Buffer Density | 1 tree per 50 feet minimum | - |
| New Home Trees | 3 minimum (1 at 4-inch, 2 at 3-inch caliper) | - |
| Small Species | 2.5-inch caliper minimum | - |
| Irrigation Plan | Required by licensed irrigator | - |
| HOA Protection | - | TX Property Code §202.007 |
| Rain Barrels | - | §202.010 protected |
| County Zoning | - | None — no regulation |
| Woodlands Trees | - | 6+ inch DBH preserved |
| Invasive Alert | - | Chinese tallow, salvinia |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Conroe FAQ
What landscaping is required for new homes in Conroe?
Each new one- or two-family dwelling requires at least 3 trees: one in the front yard at minimum 4-inch caliper and two remaining trees at minimum 3-inch caliper. An irrigation plan by a licensed irrigator is also required.
Does Conroe require native plants?
While the ordinance does not mandate exclusively native plants, the city encourages species adapted to the East Texas climate. The vegetation ordinance under Chapter 102 sets caliper and density requirements for required plantings.
Shenandoah FAQ
Can my Walden HOA make me remove native plants?
No — Texas Property Code §202.007 prohibits HOA bans on drought-resistant landscaping. They can require a landscape plan but not ban native/xeriscape species.
Are there invasive species I must remove?
Not legally required for most species, but Chinese tallow and Japanese climbing fern are widespread. Giant salvinia cannot be transported to Lake Conroe.
Compare other topics
See how Conroe and Shenandoah compare on other ordinance categories.
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