Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Moving to Georgetown, TX?

Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.

Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Georgetown across 18 categories and 100 specific rules we track.

21 Permissive65 Moderate14 Strict

๐Ÿ”Š Noise OrdinancesFull noise ordinances guide โ†’

Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.

Quiet Hours

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's Noise Control ordinance (Chapter 8.16) sets lower maximum decibel limits during nighttime than daytime, so sound that is allowed by day can become a violation after hours. The lowest applicable limit in residential areas is 56 decibels at night.

City ordinance: Code of Ordinances Ch. 8.16 (Noise Control)Residential nighttime limit: 56 decibels (vs. 63 daytime), Sec. 8.16.030

Construction Hours

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's Noise Control ordinance (Chapter 8.16) historically required a permit for nighttime construction but did not set explicit daytime construction hours. In 2025 the City proposed amending the exemptions in Section 8.16.080 to permit construction and landscaping between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.

City ordinance: Code of Ordinances Ch. 8.16; exemptions in Sec. 8.16.080Proposed work hours (2025): Construction & landscaping exempt 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Barking Dogs

Some Restrictions

Georgetown treats a persistently barking dog as a reportable noise nuisance. The City lists barking dogs among examples of noise complaints handled by the non-emergency police line, and animal noise can also fall under the Chapter 8.16 decibel limits and Texas disorderly-conduct law.

Listed complaint type: Barking dogs (City noise-complaint guidance)Decibel limits apply: 56 dB night / 63 dB day, residential (Sec. 8.16.030)

Leaf Blower Rules

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does not ban gas leaf blowers, but lawn-care equipment noise is regulated under Chapter 8.16. After residents complained about daytime lawn-care noise, the City in 2025 proposed exempting landscaping equipment from noise limits between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Gas blower ban: None found in city sourcesGoverning ordinance: Ch. 8.16; exemptions in Sec. 8.16.080

Amplified Music & Events

Some Restrictions

Amplified sound in Georgetown must comply with the Chapter 8.16 decibel limits, and for organized events it must be covered by a valid Special Event Permit. Amplified music is measured against the same Section 8.16.030 maximums that apply to other noise.

Governing ordinance: Code of Ordinances Ch. 8.16 (Noise Control)Residential limit: 63 dB day / 56 dB night (Sec. 8.16.030)

Vehicle Noise

Some Restrictions

Georgetown lists loud vehicle exhaust and car alarms among reportable noise complaints, and vehicle noise is subject to the Chapter 8.16 decibel limits. Texas Transportation Code Section 547.604 separately requires a working muffler and bans muffler cutouts and bypasses statewide.

Listed complaint types: Car alarms, vehicle exhaust (City guidance)City decibel limits apply: 63 dB day / 56 dB night residential (Sec. 8.16.030)

Decibel Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Section 8.16.030 sets maximum decibel levels by zoning and time of day: 63 dB day / 56 dB night in residential areas, 70/63 on commercial property, and 72/65 on industrial property. Where property falls under more than one category, the lowest maximum applies.

Residential: 63 dB daytime / 56 dB nighttime (Sec. 8.16.030)Commercial/business: 70 dB daytime / 63 dB nighttime

Outdoor Music

Some Restrictions

Outdoor and event music in Georgetown must meet the Chapter 8.16 decibel limits and, for organized events, be covered by a valid Special Event Permit that complies with Section 8.16.030. Downtown's Square and patios are popular venues, so the City ties event sound to permit conditions.

Governing ordinance: Code of Ordinances Ch. 8.16 (Noise Control)Event amplified sound: Requires Special Event Permit + Sec. 8.16.030 compliance

Industrial Noise

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's Section 8.16.030 sets the highest decibel allowances for industrial and commercial property: 72 dB day / 65 dB night on industrial-zoned land and 70/63 on commercial property. But where industrial use abuts a quieter zone, the lowest applicable maximum governs.

Industrial limit: 72 dB daytime / 65 dB nighttime (Sec. 8.16.030)Commercial limit: 70 dB daytime / 63 dB nighttime

Aircraft Noise

Few Restrictions

Aircraft noise around Georgetown Executive Airport is regulated primarily by the FAA, not the City. Federal law preempts most local authority over aircraft-generated noise. The City accepts noise complaints through the airport but cannot ban or fine aircraft for noise the way it does ground noise.

Primary regulator: FAA (federal preemption of aircraft noise)Airport: Georgetown Executive Airport at Johnny Gantt Field

๐Ÿ  Short-Term RentalsFull short-term rentals guide โ†’

If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.

Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Georgetown requires a city permit to operate any short-term rental within the city limits. The STR program, adopted by ordinance on Sept. 24, 2024 (Chapter 6.70), took effect Nov. 1, 2024. An STR is any residential unit rented for tenancies of 30 or fewer consecutive days for a fee.

Permit required: Yes โ€” city STR permit (Chapter 6.70)Effective date: November 1, 2024

Registration Rules

Some Restrictions

STR operators register online with the City, submitting owner and 24/7 local contact information, property details, and listing-platform information. Permits are valid one year from issuance and expire when ownership changes. Operators must also notify neighbors within a 200-foot radius within 10 days of approval.

Permit term: Valid one year from issuanceExpires on transfer: Permit expires when ownership changes

Taxes & Fees

Some Restrictions

Georgetown charges a $100 initial STR registration fee and a $50 annual renewal. Operators must collect and remit the City's 7% local hotel occupancy tax (HOT) monthly, due by the 20th of the following month, in addition to the 6% Texas state HOT.

Registration fee: $100 initial (waived through Jan 1, 2025)Renewal fee: $50 per year

Insurance Requirements

Few Restrictions

Georgetown's STR program does NOT mandate liability insurance as a condition of permitting. Required application items are ID, contact and 24/7 local-contact information, property and parking details, and listing-platform information โ€” insurance is not listed. Operators should still carry coverage as a best practice.

City insurance mandate: None required for the permitRequired application items: ID, contacts, property details, listing info

Occupancy Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's STR program limits guest occupancy and requires the limit to be disclosed in the occupant brochure. Reported guidance sets a cap of roughly two adults per bedroom plus two additional guests, and operators must comply with all applicable city building and life-safety codes.

Occupancy basis: Tied to bedroom count / lawful capacityReported cap: ~2 adults per bedroom plus 2 additional guests

Parking Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's STR application requires operators to report the number of off-street parking spaces, and STRs must comply with all city parking ordinances. The occupant brochure must disclose parking restrictions to guests so that guest vehicles don't create neighborhood nuisances.

Application: Must report off-street parking space countCompliance: All city parking ordinances apply to STR guests

Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown STRs must comply with the city's general noise ordinance, and the STR program requires operators to disclose noise rules to guests in the occupant brochure. A 24/7 local contact must be reachable to respond to noise and nuisance complaints.

Noise standard: City general noise ordinance applies to STRsDisclosure: Noise rules stated in occupant brochure

Primary-Residence-Only Rule

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does NOT limit short-term rentals to an owner's primary residence. Chapter 6.70 permits both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied (investor) STRs citywide, requiring only registration, a 24/7 local contact, and tax compliance โ€” not proof that the home is the owner's primary residence.

Primary-residence rule: None โ€” not required by Chapter 6.70Investor STRs: Allowed citywide with registration

Host Presence Rule

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does NOT require a host to be present or to live on-site during stays. Instead, the ordinance requires a designated 24-hour local contact who can respond to issues during a guest's stay. Whole-home, unhosted rentals are permitted under Chapter 6.70.

Host presence: Not required โ€” unhosted rentals allowed24/7 local contact: Required โ€” 24-hour response phone number

Night Caps

Few Restrictions

Georgetown imposes NO annual cap on the number of nights a short-term rental may operate. Permits authorize year-round rental, with the only duration rule being that an individual stay must be 30 or fewer consecutive days to qualify as a short-term rental.

Annual night cap: None โ€” year-round operation allowedPer-stay limit: 30 or fewer consecutive days = STR

๐Ÿ”ฅ Fire RegulationsFull fire regulations guide โ†’

Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.

Wildfire Zones

Some Restrictions

Georgetown does not publish a dedicated Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) overlay ordinance. Wildfire risk is managed through Williamson County burn bans, the city's fire code burning permits, and vegetation-maintenance rules. During a county burn ban, outdoor burning is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500.

Dedicated WUI code: None published by cityPrimary control: Williamson County burn ban

Fireworks

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown bans fireworks within the city limits and in unincorporated areas within 5,000 feet of the city limits under Chapter 8.08 of the Code of Ordinances. Only professional, licensed displays are allowed. The maximum fine is $2,000, and parents may be cited for letting minors use fireworks.

Governing chapter: Code of Ordinances Ch. 8.08 (Fireworks)Prohibited area: City limits + within 5,000 ft of city limits

Fire Pit Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown allows backyard fire pits and chimeneas without a separate permit, but the Fire Department sets clearance distances. Portable outdoor fires (fire pits and chimeneas) must keep 15 feet of clearance from structures; recreational fires built directly on the ground must be 25 feet away. A burn ban suspends recreational fires.

Fire pit / chimenea clearance: 15 ft from structuresGround recreational fire clearance: 25 ft from structures

Outdoor Burning

Heavy Restrictions

Open burning inside Georgetown requires an operational permit under Sec. 8.04.050, which amends Section 105.5.34 of the adopted fire code. The Fire Department offers residential, commercial, bonfire and prescribed-burn permits with varying fees. Prohibited materials include tires, plastics and treated lumber, and burning is barred during a burn ban.

Governing section: Sec. 8.04.050 (amends fire code ยง105.5.34)Residential burn permit: $25, valid 365 days

Brush Clearance

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Code Compliance enforces weed and grass limits under Sec. 8.20.0100: grass or weeds taller than 6 inches on a developed lot, or 12 inches on an undeveloped lot, are a violation. Owners must keep the area from their property line to the curb clear of tall vegetation and brush.

Governing section: Code of Ordinances Sec. 8.20.0100Developed lot limit: Grass/weeds over 6 inches

Backyard Fires

Some Restrictions

Small backyard recreational fires for warmth, cooking or ceremony are allowed in Georgetown without a permit if kept to 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height, with 25 feet of clearance from structures. Larger open burns need a permit, and all recreational fires are barred during a burn ban.

Permit: None for compliant recreational fireMax size: โ‰ค3 ft diameter, โ‰ค2 ft height

Smoke Detectors

Some Restrictions

Georgetown enforces smoke alarm requirements through its adopted International Fire Code and building codes, layered on top of Texas Property Code rental requirements. Texas law requires landlords to install and maintain working smoke alarms outside each bedroom in rental units; new construction follows the adopted fire and building codes.

Rental law: TX Property Code ยง92.251-92.253Placement: At least one alarm outside each bedroom

Propane Storage

Some Restrictions

Propane and LP-gas storage in Georgetown is governed primarily by the Texas Railroad Commission's statewide LP-Gas safety rules (based on NFPA 58) and by the city's adopted International Fire Code. Larger installations require permits and Fire Marshal review; the city directs commercial projects to coordinate with Georgetown Fire.

State regulator: TX Railroad Commission - Alternative Fuels SafetyState standard: NFPA 58 (LP-Gas Code)

๐Ÿš— Parking RulesFull parking rules guide โ†’

Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.

Curb Color Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown controls where vehicles may stop, stand or park through posted signs and designated zones under Chapter 10.16 rather than a published color-coded curb-paint system. No-parking, limited-time, loading and accessible zones are established by city designation and marked with signage and curb markings.

Primary control: Posted signs + designated zones (Chapter 10.16)Zone types: No-parking, limited-time, loading, accessible, bus stop

Overnight Parking

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does not publish a blanket citywide overnight on-street parking ban. Downtown time limits run during daytime hours, and public parking lots restrict vehicles left for extended periods. Vehicles left too long can be treated as abandoned under city code and Texas law.

Citywide overnight ban: None published; rely on posted signsDowntown limit window: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays only

RV & Boat Parking

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown's Code of Ordinances bars parking travel trailers, camper trailers, boat trailers, motor homes, buses and similar large vehicles on any street or right-of-way within a residential district, or within 300 feet of a residence in a residential district.

Code section: Sec. 10.16.080.ADistance buffer: Within 300 ft of a residence in a residential district

Street Parking Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown regulates on-street parking through Chapter 10.16 of its Code of Ordinances. Downtown Square streets carry a 3-hour limit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, while residential streets restrict large and commercial vehicles within 300 feet of a residence.

Downtown limit: 3 consecutive hours, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdaysDowntown amendment: Sec. 10.16.150 (effective Dec. 1, 2024)

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown Code Section 10.16.080.A prohibits parking commercial vehicles, truck tractors, road tractors, semi-trailers, buses and special mobile equipment on any street or right-of-way within a residential district, or within 300 feet of a residence in a residential district.

Code section: Sec. 10.16.080.ACovered vehicles: Commercial vehicles, truck/road tractors, semi-trailers, buses, special mobile equipment

Abandoned Vehicles

Some Restrictions

Georgetown enforces both its own junked-vehicle code (Chapter 8.28) and the Texas abandoned-vehicle law (Transportation Code Chapter 683). A vehicle inoperable more than 72 hours on public property or 30 days on private property may be declared junked; state law treats vehicles left illegally on public property over 48 hours as abandoned.

City junked-vehicle code: Chapter 8.28Junked (private): Inoperable more than 30 days

Driveway Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Code Section 10.16.085 prohibits parking a vehicle in the front or side yard of a residential property except on a driveway or other approved surface. Driveways and access connections are also regulated by the city's right-of-way and development standards.

Code section: Sec. 10.16.085Rule: No parking in front/side yard except on driveway or approved surface

Oversized Vehicle Parking

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown Code Section 10.16.080.A keeps oversized vehicles - buses, motor homes, special mobile equipment, truck tractors and large trailers - off any street or right-of-way in a residential district or within 300 feet of a residence. Yard parking of these vehicles is also barred under Section 10.16.085.

Code section: Sec. 10.16.080.ANamed vehicles: Buses, motor homes, special mobile equipment, truck/road tractors, large trailers

EV Charging

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Code Section 10.16.090 reserves spaces designated for electric vehicle charging for that purpose only. No vehicle may stop, stand or park in an EV charging space except to charge an electric vehicle, and only while it is actively charging; violators are subject to a fine.

Code section: Sec. 10.16.090 (Electric Vehicle Charging Stations)Adopted: 2013 parking ordinance update

Loading Zones

Some Restrictions

Georgetown designates loading zones, accessible spaces and bus stops downtown, and regulates stopping, standing and parking in restricted zones under Chapter 10.16. Off-street loading for new development is set by the Unified Development Code, Chapter 9 (Off-Street Parking and Loading).

Downtown designations: Loading zones, accessible spaces and bus stops are markedOn-street regulation: Code of Ordinances Chapter 10.16

๐Ÿงฑ Fence RegulationsFull fence regulations guide โ†’

Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.

Height Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown UDC Section 8.07.040 limits single-family front-yard fences to four feet (and at least 50% transparent), while side and rear fences in all other locations are limited to six feet, with increases to eight feet allowed only in specific listed circumstances. Height is measured from the higher side.

Front yard: Max 4 ft and at least 50% transparent (Sec. 8.07.040.A)Side/rear (default): Max 6 ft (Sec. 8.07.040.C)

Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Georgetown UDC Section 8.07.020 requires a fence permit to erect any fence within the city limits, with limited exceptions for agricultural uses, interior pet/garden fencing, and minor alterations replacing less than one-third of the fence facing. The city aims to process fence permits within about 10 business days.

Permit required: To erect any fence in city limits (Sec. 8.07.020)Agricultural exemption: No permit needed (Sec. 8.07.020.A)

Neighbor Fence Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's UDC requires the finished side of a fence to face public streets and parkland (Sec. 8.07.030.E) and lets neighbors jointly consent to a taller rear fence (Sec. 8.07.040.C). Cost-sharing and boundary disputes are governed by Texas property law, not city ordinance, since Texas has no general fence-sharing statute.

Finished side: Must face streets and parkland (Sec. 8.07.030.E)Taller shared rear fence: Needs both owners' consent (Sec. 8.07.040.C)

Retaining Walls

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's UDC fence section does not set a retaining-wall height limit; instead, retaining walls follow the adopted building code. Per the city's permit guidance, a permit is not required for retaining walls four feet or less measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless the wall supports a surcharge.

No UDC height cap: Retaining walls follow the adopted building codePermit threshold: Required if over 4 ft (footing to top) or supporting a surcharge

Fence Requirements

Some Restrictions

Georgetown UDC Section 8.07.030 sets general fence requirements: structural integrity against weather, ongoing maintenance, finished side facing streets and parkland, sight-triangle clearance, and limits on signs, temporary fences, and electric fences. Certain subdivisions must also build a masonry boundary wall along major roadways under Sec. 8.07.060.

Structural integrity: Required; 2+ rails for chain link/picket (Sec. 8.07.030.A)Maintenance: Kept in good repair and safe condition (Sec. 8.07.030.B)

Material Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Georgetown UDC Section 8.07.030.C allows wood, stone, rock, brick, fencecrete, decorative wrought iron, chain link and welded wire, and prohibits makeshift materials like plywood, plastic, fiberglass panels, chicken wire and corrugated metal. Barbed wire, razor wire and electric fencing are allowed only under narrow limits set elsewhere in Section 8.07.

Allowed: Wood, stone, rock, brick, fencecrete, wrought iron, chain link, welded wire (Sec. 8.07.030.C.1)Prohibited: Plywood, plastic, fiberglass panels, chicken wire, fabric, corrugated metal (Sec. 8.07.030.C.2)

Approved Materials

Few Restrictions

Georgetown UDC Section 8.07.030.C lets property owners use a broad range of durable fence materials by right, including wood, stone, brick, fencecrete, decorative wrought iron, chain link and welded wire, plus vinyl or PVC subject to staff approval. All fences must keep structural integrity and show their finished side to streets and parkland.

By-right materials: Wood, stone, brick, fencecrete, wrought iron, chain link, welded wire (Sec. 8.07.030.C.1)Staff-approved options: Vinyl, PVC, other rot-resistant alternatives

๐Ÿ” Animal OrdinancesFull animal ordinances guide โ†’

Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.

Dog Leash Laws

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown's Code of Ordinances makes it unlawful and a nuisance for the owner of any animal other than a cat to allow it to run at large within the City. A dog off the owner's premises must be physically restrained and under the immediate control of a person able to restrain it.

At-large rule: Sec. 7.04.010.A (unlawful for animals other than cats)Leash definition: No greater than six feet (Title 7 definitions)

Chickens & Livestock

Some Restrictions

Georgetown allows backyard hens. Code Section 7.06.010.B limits keeping to no more than eight hens in residential zoning districts, requires a coop located at least 20 feet from another person's residence, requires hens to stay in the owner's backyard, and prohibits roosters.

Hen limit: 8 hens max in residential zoning districts (Sec. 7.06.010.B)Roosters: Prohibited

Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does not ban or restrict any dog breed. Its dangerous-dog rules in Chapter 7.05 incorporate Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 and classify dogs by behavior, not breed. Texas law (Sec. 822.047) prohibits cities from adopting breed-specific regulation.

Breed ban: None - Georgetown has no breed-specific restrictionLocal framework: Chapter 7.05 (Dangerous and Aggressive Dogs), behavior-based

Beekeeping

Some Restrictions

Georgetown allows beekeeping under Chapter 7.08. Hives must sit at least 10 feet from a property line, at least 50 feet from another person's residence, and colony counts are capped by lot size (e.g., two colonies on a quarter-acre or smaller). Owners notify the Chief of Police.

Hive setback (property line): At least 10 ft (Sec. 7.08.020.A)Hive setback (neighbor residence): At least 50 ft (Sec. 7.08.020.C)

Exotic Pets

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown bans many exotic and dangerous animals. Code Section 7.06.020 makes it unlawful to keep species such as big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles, non-venomous reptiles over six feet, alligators, skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, wolves and pot-bellied pigs, with narrow exceptions for accredited zoos and licensed institutions.

Prohibited keeping: Sec. 7.06.020.A (lists big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles, etc.)Reptile size rule: Non-venomous reptiles over 6 ft are prohibited

Livestock

Some Restrictions

Georgetown restricts livestock near homes. Code Section 7.06.010.A makes it a nuisance to keep livestock within 200 feet of any private residence or within 500 feet of any building open to the public, unless the property is zoned Agricultural or Residential Estate or used as a vet clinic or boarding kennel.

Setback from residence: 200 ft from any private residence (Sec. 7.06.010.A)Setback from public building: 500 ft from any building open to the public

Pet Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown allows up to five cats or dogs (or any combination) per household without a special permit. Keeping more than five requires a multi-pet permit under Section 7.02.030 (or a kennel permit if for boarding, training or breeding). Puppies and kittens under four months are not counted.

No-permit limit: 5 cats/dogs total (or any combination)Multi-pet permit: Required for more than 5 (Sec. 7.02.030)

Cat Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's at-large rule treats cats differently from dogs. Under Section 7.04.010, only a cat that has not been altered or vaccinated for rabies is barred from running at large. Altered, rabies-vaccinated cats are not prohibited from roaming, but all cats over four months must be vaccinated.

Cat at-large rule: Only unaltered/unvaccinated cats barred from roaming (Sec. 7.04.010.B)Rabies vaccination: Required for cats over 4 months (Sec. 7.07.010)

Wildlife Feeding

Some Restrictions

Georgetown has no standalone ban on feeding wildlife, but Code Section 7.04.090.9 makes it a nuisance to allow food to remain outside unattended for an extended period so as to attract nuisance animals. Unattended pet food and similar attractants can therefore draw enforcement.

Direct feeding ban: None specific; handled as a nuisanceAttractant nuisance: Sec. 7.04.090.9 (food left out to attract nuisance animals)

Animal Hoarding

Some Restrictions

Georgetown does not use the word 'hoarding,' but its pet limits, permit conditions and care standards function as anti-hoarding controls. More than five cats or dogs requires a permit (Sec. 7.02.030), animals must receive proper care (Ch. 7.03), and Texas Penal Code 42.092 criminalizes animal cruelty.

Permit trigger: More than 5 cats/dogs needs a permit (Sec. 7.02.030)Permit conditions: Sanitary, adequately sized, no odor; animals altered and cared for

๐ŸŒฟ Landscaping RulesFull landscaping rules guide โ†’

From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.

Grass Height Limits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Code of Ordinances Section 8.20.100 caps grass and weeds at six inches on developed property and 12 inches on undeveloped tracts. Owners must also keep the strip from the property line to the curb clear. Violations are a nuisance the city can abate and lien.

Developed lot limit: 6 inchesUndeveloped tract limit: 12 inches

Tree Trimming

Some Restrictions

Routine pruning of ordinary yard trees is unregulated in Georgetown, but pruning of a Heritage Tree (26-inch DBH protected species) requires city review under Unified Development Code Chapter 8. Heritage tree pruning requests are submitted online through the Planning Department.

Ordinary tree pruning: Not regulated by the cityHeritage Tree pruning: Requires city review (UDC Ch. 8)

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown's UDC Chapter 8 protects Protected Trees (12-inch DBH) and Heritage Trees (26-inch DBH listed species). Removal requires city approval and mitigation, but residential lots platted before February 13, 2007 are exempt. Dead and hazardous trees are also exempt.

Protected Tree: 12 inches DBH (UDC 8.01.040)Heritage Tree: 26 inches DBH, listed species

Weed Ordinances

Some Restrictions

Georgetown Code of Ordinances Section 8.20.100 declares weeds and grasses over six inches (developed) or 12 inches (undeveloped) a nuisance. Owners must also clear the property-line-to-curb strip. The city can abate uncorrected nuisances and lien the property under Texas Health & Safety Code Ch. 342.

Code section: Code of Ordinances 8.20.100Developed limit: 6 inches

Water Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown Water Utility customers follow year-round watering rules. Irrigation systems run only on assigned days (by address last digit), never Monday, and never between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Hand watering is allowed any day. Restrictions apply to commercial customers too.

Current stage: Drought Stage 1 (2 days/week)Address 1,5,9: Tuesday or Friday

Rainwater Harvesting

Few Restrictions

Georgetown encourages rainwater harvesting and offers a utility rebate of $0.50 per gallon covering half the materials cost, up to $600 a year, for tanks up to 400 gallons. Statewide, Texas Property Code 202.007 bars HOAs from banning rain barrels and rainwater systems.

Rebate rate: $0.50 per gallon, half of materialsAnnual rebate cap: Up to $600/year

Native Plants

Few Restrictions

Georgetown promotes native landscaping with a Texas Grown rebate up to $3,000 (residential) per year for converting turf to native, water-wise plants. Statewide, Texas Property Code 202.007 prevents HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping, subject to reasonable plan review.

Rebate program: Texas Grown Native LandscapingResidential max: Up to $3,000/year

Artificial Turf

Few Restrictions

Georgetown publishes no specific ordinance banning or permitting residential artificial turf, so installation is generally allowed subject to general property-maintenance rules. Statewide, Texas Property Code 202.007 limits HOAs from banning water-conserving turf, with reasonable plan review allowed.

City turf ordinance: None found in Code/UDCDefault status: Generally allowed for private yards

Composting

Few Restrictions

Georgetown has no ordinance prohibiting backyard composting; residents may compost as long as the pile does not become a nuisance under Code of Ordinances Chapter 8.20. Statewide, Texas Property Code 202.007 bars HOAs from banning composting of vegetation.

Composting ban: None in city codeApplicable rule: Nuisance code (Ch. 8.20)

๐Ÿ’ผ Home BusinessFull home business guide โ†’

Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.

Zoning Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Home occupations in Georgetown are an accessory use governed by the Unified Development Code's zoning use regulations (Chapter 5). The business must remain secondary to residential use. Texas law (HB 2464, the Home-Based Business Fairness Act) also bars cities from prohibiting a no-impact home-based business.

Local Authority: UDC Ch. 5 (Zoning Use Regulations)Use Type: Accessory; secondary to residence

Signage Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown's home-occupation rules require the business to remain secondary to residential use and preserve neighborhood character, which limits or prohibits commercial signage in residential zones. Texas HB 2464 protects no-impact home-based businesses only when their activities are not visible from the street, reinforcing the no-visible-signage expectation.

Local Rule: Home occupation must stay residential in characterResidential Signs: Commercial signage restricted in residential zones

Home Occupation Permits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown regulates home occupations through its Unified Development Code (Chapter 5). Texas HB 2464, however, bars cities from requiring a license, permit, or other approval to operate a no-impact home-based business, so a qualifying low-impact home office generally does not need a City home-occupation permit, though it must still meet other codes.

Local Standards: UDC Ch. 5 (Zoning Use Regulations)No-Impact Permit: City cannot require one (HB 2464)

Cottage Food Operations

Few Restrictions

Cottage food in Georgetown is governed by Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 437, which preempts local permitting. A cottage food production operation can earn up to $150,000 in annual gross income selling allowed shelf-stable foods from home, and no city or local health department may require a permit, license, or fee for direct-to-consumer sales.

Governing Law: TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 437Income Cap: $150,000 annual gross

Home Daycare

Some Restrictions

Home child care in Georgetown is licensed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), not the City. A Listed Family Home cares for one to three unrelated children, a Registered Child-Care Home for up to 12 children total, and larger operations require a separate child-care license. Georgetown's UDC home-occupation rules still apply to the residence.

Regulator: Texas HHSC Child Care RegulationListed Family Home: 1 to 3 unrelated children

๐ŸŠ Swimming Pools & SpasFull swimming pools & spas guide โ†’

Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.

Fencing Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Georgetown requires a fence, wall, or barrier that completely surrounds a swimming pool, with a self-latching gate, in accordance with the adopted code. The City's residential permit guidance ties pool barriers to the International Residential Code, and Georgetown enforces the 2021 Swimming Pool and Spa Code for pool/spa construction.

Barrier: Must completely surround poolGate: Self-latching gate required

Pool Permits

Some Restrictions

Georgetown requires a building permit for in-ground or prefabricated pools deeper than 24 inches, plus spas and hot tubs, in both residential and commercial use. Prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep are exempt. The City enforces the 2021 Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and as of August 1, 2024 all pools must be engineered.

Permit Threshold: Pools deeper than 24 inchesAdopted Code: 2021 Swimming Pool & Spa Code

Safety Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Beyond the perimeter barrier, Georgetown requires that all doors with direct access to the pool be equipped with an alarm that produces an audible signal when the door is opened. Pool construction follows the City-adopted 2021 Swimming Pool and Spa Code, including barrier, electrical bonding, and inspection requirements.

Door Alarms: Required on doors with direct pool accessAlarm Type: Audible when door opens

Above-Ground Pools

Some Restrictions

Georgetown treats prefabricated (above-ground) pools the same as in-ground pools once they exceed 24 inches in depth: a permit is required, and the same barrier, alarm, setback, and inspection rules apply. Prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep do not require a permit.

Permit Threshold: Deeper than 24 inchesUnder 24 in: No permit required

Hot Tub Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown requires a permit for spas and hot tubs, in residential and commercial use, under the City-adopted 2021 Swimming Pool and Spa Code. Spas and hot tubs are reviewed for electrical bonding and safety, and the City's barrier and door-alarm provisions apply to pool/spa installations.

Permit: Required for spas and hot tubsAdopted Code: 2021 Swimming Pool & Spa Code

๐Ÿ—๏ธ Accessory StructuresFull accessory structures guide โ†’

Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.

ADU Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown permits accessory dwelling units (garage apartments, casitas) as a subordinate use limited to 25% of the primary dwelling. ADUs are allowed in AG, RE, RL, RS, and MU-DT districts, must share the primary residence's electric and water meters, and renting one requires the property to be owner-occupied.

Max size: 25% of primary dwelling unit (UDC 5.02.020 B)Allowed districts: AG, RE, RL, RS, MU-DT

Shed Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown requires a permit for accessory (non-habitable) storage buildings under UDC Chapter 6, Section 6.06. An accessory structure may not exceed 25% of the principal structure's square footage, no more than 30% of the rear yard may be covered, and structures over 200 sq ft generally require an engineer's certification.

Permit: Required (UDC Chapter 6, Section 6.06)Max size: 25% of principal structure square footage

Garage Conversions

Some Restrictions

Georgetown treats garage conversions as a distinct permit type. A garage converted into habitable space with a kitchen becomes an accessory dwelling unit subject to the UDC ADU rules (25% size cap, shared meters, SUP for rental). All conversions require a building permit and must meet the adopted 2021 building codes.

Permit: Building permit required (distinct 'Garage Conversion' permit type)With kitchen: Treated as ADU under UDC 5.02.020 B (25% cap, shared meters)

Carport Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown requires a permit for carports under UDC Chapter 6, Section 6.06. Garages and carports must be set back at least 20-25 feet from the street where the driveway takes access, or 10 feet from a public alley. A carport may be placed on an existing driveway if it meets the required street setback.

Permit: Required (UDC Chapter 6, Section 6.06)Street setback: ~20-25 ft from street where driveway takes access

Tiny Homes

Some Restrictions

Georgetown has no separate 'tiny home' ordinance. A habitable tiny home on a permanent foundation is regulated as a dwelling/ADU under the UDC (25% size cap, shared meters, SUP for rental) and must meet the adopted 2021 International Residential Code. A tiny home on wheels is treated as an RV, not a permanent dwelling.

Dedicated ordinance: None โ€” regulated as dwelling/ADU and by building codeOn foundation w/ kitchen: Treated as ADU (UDC 5.02.020 B): 25% cap, shared meters

๐Ÿ– Outdoor CookingFull outdoor cooking guide โ†’

๐Ÿชง Sign RegulationsFull sign regulations guide โ†’

๐Ÿš๏ธ Property MaintenanceFull property maintenance guide โ†’

Trash Bin Storage

Some Restrictions

Georgetown residents use carts provided through Texas Disposal Systems in 95-, 65-, or 35-gallon sizes. All materials must fit inside the cart; extra bags or bundles outside the cart require a $5.20 Bag Tag. Refuse left outside a building other than in approved containers violates Sec. 8.20.080.

Cart sizes: 95-gallon (default), 65-gallon, 35-gallonProvider: Texas Disposal Systems (city contract)

Garage Sale Rules

Few Restrictions

Georgetown does not require a permit for a garage or yard sale. Sale signs are limited to 4 square feet on-site, off-site signs must be within 1,000 feet of the sale, and no signs may be attached to utility poles, street signs, or traffic devices under UDC Sec. 10.03.020.

Permit required: NoOn-site sign size: Max 4 square feet

Property Blight

Some Restrictions

Georgetown's Code Compliance division enforces Chapter 8.20 (Nuisances) and Chapter 8.28 (junked vehicles). Refuse, brush, and unsightly accumulations outside a building are prohibited, and inoperable, wrecked, or unregistered vehicles on private property are declared a nuisance subject to removal.

Refuse on property: Prohibited outside buildings (Sec. 8.20.080)Junked vehicles: Nuisance if inoperable 30+ days (Ch. 8.28)

Vacant Lot Maintenance

Some Restrictions

On an undeveloped (vacant) lot in Georgetown, weeds and grass become a violation when they exceed 12 inches, versus 6 inches on a developed lot, under Sec. 8.20.100. Owners must also keep the strip from the property line to the curb clear of tall vegetation and brush.

Vacant lot grass limit: 12 inches (Sec. 8.20.100)Developed lot limit: 6 inches

Weeds & Overgrown Grass

Some Restrictions

Georgetown caps grass and weeds at 6 inches on developed lots and 12 inches on undeveloped lots under Sec. 8.20.100. Owners must also keep the area from their property line to the curb free of tall weeds, grass, brush, and unsightly vegetation.

Developed lot limit: 6 inches (Sec. 8.20.100)Undeveloped lot limit: 12 inches

๐Ÿ’ก Outdoor LightingFull outdoor lighting guide โ†’

๐Ÿ—‘๏ธ Trash & RecyclingFull trash & recycling guide โ†’

Bin Placement Rules

Some Restrictions

Georgetown carts must be at the curb before collection begins, which means by 7 a.m. most of the year and 6 a.m. during summer hours. All materials must fit inside the cart, and refuse left outside a building other than in approved containers is a nuisance under Sec. 8.20.080.

Set-out deadline: By 7 a.m. (6 a.m. summer)Collection window: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. (6 a.m.-7 p.m. summer)

Bulk Item Disposal

Few Restrictions

Georgetown residents get four free curbside bulky-waste pickups per year through Texas Disposal Systems for items too large for the cart, such as furniture, mattresses, toilets, washers, and dryers. Pickups must be scheduled in advance by calling TDS, and items go out by 7 a.m. on the regular trash day.

Free pickups: 4 per year per householdAccepted items: Furniture, mattresses, toilets, washers, dryers

Pickup Rules & Schedules

Few Restrictions

Georgetown provides weekly curbside trash and every-other-week recycling through Texas Disposal Systems. Collection runs 7 a.m.-7 p.m. (6 a.m.-7 p.m. in summer). No pickup occurs on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, and pickups slide one day after those holidays.

Trash frequency: WeeklyRecycling frequency: Every other week (biweekly)

Recycling Requirements

Few Restrictions

Georgetown offers single-stream recycling every other week through Texas Disposal Systems, so residents can mix accepted recyclables in one cart with no sorting. Recycling participation is a city-provided service; Texas has no statewide curbside recycling mandate.

Type: Single-stream (no sorting)Frequency: Every other week (biweekly)

Illegal Dumping

Heavy Restrictions

Dumping garbage, brush, or refuse on public or private property outside a building violates Georgetown Sec. 8.20.080. Illegal dumping is also a state crime under Tex. Health & Safety Code Sec. 365.012, ranging from a Class C misdemeanor for under 5 pounds to a state-jail felony for 1,000 pounds or more.

Local prohibition: Georgetown Code Sec. 8.20.080State statute: Tex. Health & Safety Code Sec. 365.012

๐ŸŒ™ Curfew LawsFull curfew laws guide โ†’

๐Ÿ“ Building Setbacks & ZoningFull building setbacks & zoning guide โ†’

๐ŸŒณ Tree ProtectionFull tree protection guide โ†’

Overall: What to Expect in Georgetown

Georgetown has 100 ordinances on file across 18 categories. Of these, 21 are rated permissive, 65 moderate, and 14 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Georgetown compared to other cities.

Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the city directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.

Also Moving Nearby?