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.
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.
No violations for native plant landscaping. Overgrown vegetation (over 48 inches) near public ways may trigger Ch. 10 nuisance enforcement.
Houston, TX
Smoke alarms in Houston dwellings are governed by Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 766 and the Houston Fire Code, which adopts the International Fire Code (...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. With no zoning and limited aesthetic c...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatable size, location, lighting, and motor noise are governed by subdiv...
Houston, TX
Houston has no municipal ordinance regulating holiday light displays. With no zoning and limited aesthetic regulation, holiday lighting is governed by deed r...
Houston, TX
Houston requires building permits for built-in outdoor kitchens that include gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Standalone freestan...
Houston, TX
Houston has no specific ordinance prohibiting residential smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance complaints may be addressed under Chapt...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle native plants.
See how Houston's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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