Bexar County, TX Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

Artificial turf has become increasingly common in Bexar County as drought and Edwards Aquifer restrictions strain natural lawns. Texas Property Code 202.007 protects drought-resistant landscaping from HOA bans, and many Texas appellate cases have extended that protection to well-installed artificial turf when it replaces thirsty grass, though HOAs can still set reasonable aesthetic standards, require edging, or limit front-yard percentage. Neither unincorporated Bexar County nor San Antonio requires permits for residential turf installation. Installation should maintain permeability so stormwater still infiltrates rather than sheet-flowing to neighbors, especially on the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone where impermeable cover is regulated on larger projects. Infill materials should be coated to avoid heat buildup in San Antonio's 100-degree summers, and proper drainage layers prevent odor and pet-waste issues. Commercial and multifamily projects within San Antonio may need landscape plan review to ensure turf meets UDC impervious cover and buffer requirements.