Garland, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Landscaping
- Native and drought-tolerant plants encouraged citywide
- Requirements
- Living-cover percentage required, but turfgrass not mandated
- Limits
- HOAs cannot ban xeriscaping (TX Property Code 202.007)
- Height Limits
- Avoid invasive species (Chinese tallow, ligustrum)
- Water
- Rebates available via Garland Water Utilities
Summary
Garland encourages native and drought-tolerant landscaping, and Texas Property Code 202.007 prevents HOAs from prohibiting xeriscaping, drought-resistant plants, or water-conserving turf.
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: ... (4) using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf. ... (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. ... (d-1) A property owners' association may not unreasonably deny or withhold approval of a proposed installation of drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf under Subsection (d)(8) or unreasonably determine that the proposed installation is aesthetically incompatible with other landscaping in the subdivision.
Full Breakdown
Garland's landscape standards allow and encourage Texas-native and drought-tolerant species (Texas sage, lantana, salvia, blue grama, buffalograss, agave, yucca, native oaks and pecans). The city's water conservation plan promotes 'WaterWise' landscaping using mulched beds, native perennials, and reduced turfgrass area. While developed lots must still meet minimum coverage standards (typically a percentage of the front yard in living plant material), turfgrass is not required - native bed plantings count. Texas Property Code 202.007 protects homeowners from HOA rules that effectively ban xeriscaping, drought-resistant landscaping, or water-conserving turf species, although HOAs can require a written landscape plan. Invasive species such as Chinese tallow, ligustrum, and salt cedar should be avoided. Rebates and educational resources are available through Garland Water Utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my lawn with native plant beds?
Does my HOA have to allow xeriscaping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garland
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Garland to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle native plants.