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Travis County, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

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

Key Facts

HOA Protection
TX 202.007
Austin Program
Grow Green guide
Rebate
Up to 3,000 dollars
Key Species
Live oak, bluebonnet, salvia
Resource
LBJ Wildflower Center

Summary

Travis County strongly encourages native Hill Country plants (live oak, cedar elm, bluebonnet, Indian paintbrush, Mexican feathergrass) for water conservation. Austin Grow Green program and LCRA/LBJ Wildflower Center offer plant lists and rebates. HOAs cannot ban xeriscaping under TX Property Code 202.007.

City-specific rules exist: Austin has its own native plants rules that differ from Travis County's county-level regulations. If you live in Austin, check the city-specific page instead.

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.

Source: Austin Grow GreenView official code

Full Breakdown

Austins Grow Green program publishes a native/adapted plant guide specifically for Central Texas limestone soils and Hill Country microclimates. Key recommended species: live oak (Quercus fusiformis), cedar elm, mountain laurel, Mexican plum, yaupon holly, Mexican feathergrass, blackfoot daisy, lantana, salvia, Turks cap. Avoid: Bradford pear, chinaberry, nandina (invasive). TX Property Code 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping, though HOAs may require landscape plans and minimum vegetation coverage. Austin Water offers WaterWise Landscape rebates up to 3,000 dollars for converting turf to native/adapted beds. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (managed by UT) is the authoritative regional resource.

Violations & Fines

HOA blocking drought-tolerant landscape: violates 202.007, injunctive relief available. Aesthetic requirements (minimum coverage, design review) remain enforceable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my HOA force me to maintain a turf lawn?
No outright ban on drought-tolerant alternatives (TX 202.007), but HOAs can require landscape plans and minimum coverage percentages.
Whats the best native tree for Travis County?
Live oak (Quercus fusiformis) is the iconic Hill Country choice. Cedar elm, Mexican plum, and Texas red oak also thrive in limestone soils.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Travis County

Artificial TurfFew RestrictionsRainwater HarvestingFew RestrictionsWeed OrdinancesFew RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseLight RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Breed RestrictionsSignificant Restrictions

All Travis County rules

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Native Plants in Cities Across Travis County

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