Dallas, TX Invasive Plant Rules: Front Yard Gardens (2026)

Dallas permits front yard vegetable and flower gardens on residential properties. Texas House Bill 1686, signed in 2023, prohibits property owners' associations from banning or unreasonably restricting vegetable gardens on single-family lots, though HOAs may still impose reasonable aesthetic and maintenance requirements. Dallas Code Compliance focuses on property maintenance standards—gardens that are maintained and do not create nuisance conditions are permitted. The city's Development Code does not prohibit edible landscaping on residential properties. Raised beds, container gardens, and in-ground plantings are all acceptable. Gardens must not obstruct public sidewalks or right-of-way areas. Properties in Planned Development (PD) districts may have additional landscape restrictions. The city encourages community gardens through its Parks and Recreation Department, and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides gardening resources for the North Texas region. During drought conditions, watering restrictions may apply per city water conservation ordinances.