Brush Clearance: Houston vs Pasadena
How do brush clearance rules compare between Houston, TX and Pasadena, TX?
Houston and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston requires property owners to maintain vegetation to prevent fire and safety hazards. Grass must be 9 inches or less; brush and shrubbery 7 feet or less. Vegetation over 48 inches is declared an immediate danger and may be abated without notice.
View full Houston rules →Pasadena, TX
Harris County
Pasadena Code Enforcement addresses overgrown vegetation as a nuisance under Chapter 20. Properties must be maintained free of accumulations of rubbish, trash, and excessive vegetation. The city can abate nuisances and bill the property owner.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Houston | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Grass Max | 9 inches | - |
| Brush Max | 7 feet | - |
| Emergency | 48+ inches = immediate abatement | - |
| Code Section | Section 10-453 | - |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement (713) 475-5588 |
| Standard | - | No excessive vegetation or brush |
| Abatement | - | City may clear and lien property |
| Fire Code | - | IFC 2015 adopted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Houston FAQ
What happens if my lot is overgrown?
The city can issue fines from $50 to $2,000. If vegetation exceeds 48 inches, the city may abate immediately and file a lien for costs.
How do I report an overgrown property?
Call 311 or email the Neighborhood Protection Division. Community Code Enforcement handles complaints.
Pasadena FAQ
Does Pasadena have brush clearance requirements?
Yes. Properties must be maintained free of overgrown vegetation. Code Enforcement addresses violations as nuisances with potential fines and city abatement.
Who do I call about overgrown property in Pasadena?
Contact Code Enforcement at (713) 475-5588 or file a complaint online at pasadenatx.gov.
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