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

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: TX A and M AgriLife Tarrant County →

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Key Facts

County Rule: None
HOA Preemption: TX Prop Code 202.007
Extension Office: Tarrant County AgriLife
Rebates: Available from utilities

City-specific rules exist: Fort Worth, Mansfield, Arlington, Euless, Haltom City, North Richland Hills, Grapevine, and Keller have their own native plants rules that differ from Tarrant County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Native plants and xeriscaping are fully legal in Tarrant County. Texas Property Code 202.007 bars HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping. The county has no turf grass mandate.

Full Breakdown

Tarrant County has no ordinance regulating landscape plant selection in unincorporated areas. Property owners may plant native, drought-tolerant, or xeriscape landscapes without county approval. Texas Property Code Section 202.007 is especially important in DFW: it prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping or water conservation turf. HOAs may still require a written landscape plan showing how native plantings meet neighborhood standards for appearance and maintenance. The Texas A and M AgriLife Extension Tarrant County office at 401 W Sanford St in Arlington provides free plant lists featuring Mexican Feather Grass, Gregg Dalea, Turk Cap, Autumn Sage, and Blackfoot Daisy suited to North Texas. The Native Plant Society of Texas North Central Chapter offers local resources. Many Tarrant County water providers offer rebates for turf-to-native conversions.

Violations & Fines

No county native plant violations exist. HOA disputes over xeriscaping covered under TX Prop Code 202.007 can be challenged if they amount to a ban rather than reasonable design standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Tarrant County?

Yes. Tarrant County has no lawn requirement, and Texas Property Code 202.007 prevents HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping. Your HOA may require a written landscape plan but cannot reject native plants outright.

What native plants grow well in Tarrant County?

Texas A and M AgriLife recommends Mexican Feather Grass, Gregg Dalea, Turk Cap, Autumn Sage, Blackfoot Daisy, and Texas Sage for North Texas yards. Contact the Tarrant County Extension at 817-884-1944 for plant lists.

How does Tarrant County compare?

See how Tarrant County's native plants rules stack up against other locations.

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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