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Amarillo, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
Zoning Ord. § 4-10-1003
Plant list authority
Planning Director
Climate zone
Texas Panhandle / USDA 6b–7a
Key emphasis
Drought-tolerant, low-water species

Summary

Amarillo's Zoning Ordinance Chapter 4-10 includes a landscaping article with a recommended plant list (§ 4-10-1003) emphasizing drought-tolerant and regionally appropriate species suited to the Texas Panhandle climate.

Sec. 202.007. CERTAIN RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS PROHIBITED. (a) A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from: ... (3) implementing efficient irrigation systems, including underground drip or other drip systems; or(4) using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf.(b) A provision that violates Subsection (a) is void.(c) A property owners' association may restrict the type of turf used by a property owner in the planting of new turf to encourage or require water-conserving turf.

Source: Amarillo Code of Ordinances – Landscaping Division (Ch. 4-10)View official code

Full Breakdown

Amarillo Zoning Ordinance § 4-10-1003 establishes a recommended plant list for landscaping within the city, administered by the Planning Director. Plants are evaluated by hardiness zone, water requirements, sun exposure, and site suitability. The list is not a guarantee of plant survival; designers and property owners must match plants to soil types, microclimates, and shade patterns. The Planning Director may revise the list as new plant varieties emerge, climate conditions change, or conservation needs increase. Compliance with the plant list is required for new development and significant landscaping projects subject to site-plan review.

Violations & Fines

Non-compliant landscaping installations identified during site-plan review or inspections may require corrective replanting. Fines follow standard code enforcement procedures under Amarillo Code of Ordinances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Amarillo require native plants in residential landscaping?
The city maintains a recommended plant list (§ 4-10-1003) favoring drought-tolerant, climate-appropriate species. It applies primarily to new development subject to site-plan review.
Can I replace my lawn with xeriscape in Amarillo?
Yes. Xeriscaping with drought-tolerant native plants is encouraged in Amarillo. No local ordinance prohibits low-water landscaping; HOA rules may impose separate restrictions.
Who approves the plant list?
The Planning Director or designee maintains and updates the recommended plant list under § 4-10-1003 as conditions warrant.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Amarillo

Water RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsTree TrimmingSome RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsArtificial TurfFew RestrictionsWeed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Dibs & Space SavingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome Restrictions

All Amarillo rules

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