Converse, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- HOA preemption
- TX Prop Code 202.007
- SAWS rebates
- WaterSaver program
- Native examples
- Sage, salvia, esperanza
- Code compliance
- Must look maintained
- Benefit
- Huge water savings
Summary
Converse encourages xeriscape and native plant landscaping to conserve Edwards Aquifer water. Texas Property Code 202.007 blocks HOAs from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.
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: (1) implementing measures promoting solid-waste composting of vegetation, including grass clippings, leaves, or brush, or leaving grass clippings uncollected on grass; (2) installing rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system; (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.
Full Breakdown
The Edwards Aquifer region faces recurring drought and SAWS actively promotes replacing thirsty St. Augustine turf with native and adapted plants. Texas Property Code Section 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping or water conserving turf, though HOAs may require a plan that maintains aesthetic consistency with the neighborhood. Native and adapted plants that thrive in Converse include Texas sage, salvias, lantana, esperanza, Turks cap, flame acanthus, blackfoot daisy, bluebonnets, little bluestem grass, and live oak. SAWS offers WaterSaver rebates for homeowners converting turf to qualifying plant lists. Code compliance allows natural and xeriscape yards provided they appear intentional and maintained, not abandoned. Keep planting beds edged, weeds pulled, and mulch refreshed to avoid tall-grass citations on naturalistic yards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA force me to have a St. Augustine lawn?
Does SAWS pay me to replace my lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Converse
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Converse to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle native plants.