Houston, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- State Protection
- Texas Property Code Sec. 202.007
- HOA Rules
- Cannot unreasonably deny drought-resistant landscaping plans
- Mowing Requirement
- Must mow within 10 ft of roadway, 5 ft of sidewalk
- HB 517 (2025)
- HOAs cannot fine for brown vegetation during water restrictions
Summary
Texas Property Code Sec. 202.007 protects homeowners' rights to install drought-resistant landscaping and water-conserving natural turf. Houston does not restrict native plant landscaping and encourages water conservation through its municipal programs.
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
Under Texas Property Code Section 202.007, HOAs cannot prohibit drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf. HOAs may require plan submission but cannot unreasonably deny xeriscaping or native plant proposals. Houston requires regular mowing to prevent uncontrolled vegetation within 10 feet of a public roadway and 5 feet of a public sidewalk. The City of Houston's Water Conservation Plan targets reducing per capita water use, and native landscaping that reduces irrigation demand supports these goals. HB 517 (2025) added Section 202.008 to the Property Code, preventing HOAs from fining homeowners for brown vegetation during water restriction periods, with protection extending 60 days after restrictions are lifted.
Violations & Fines
No violations for native plant landscaping. Overgrown vegetation (over 48 inches) near public ways may trigger Ch. 10 nuisance enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA force me to remove native plants in Houston?
Are there city restrictions on xeriscaping in Houston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle native plants.