Richardson, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Prohibition
- No city rule mandates turf grass; native landscapes are permitted
- Authority
- TX Property Code 202.007 blocks HOA bans on xeriscape
- Vegetation
- HOAs may require approval of a landscape plan
- Vegetation
- Texas SmartScape and WaterMyYard.org provide free plant guidance
- Authority
- Weeds over 12 inches are a code violation regardless of plant choice
Summary
Richardson encourages xeriscape and native-plant landscaping. Texas Property Code 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-resistant landscaping, subject to reasonable design standards.
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.(c) A property owners' association may restrict the type of turf used by a proper
Full Breakdown
Richardson actively promotes water-wise landscaping through North Texas Municipal Water District programs, WaterMyYard.org, and its own sustainability department. Native Texas species such as Texas sage, Turk's cap, lantana, salvia, black-eyed Susan, and ornamental grasses are encouraged. The City offers educational resources at the Huffhines Park demonstration garden and supports the Texas SmartScape program. There is no ordinance requiring a turf-grass lawn; homeowners may replace sod with beds of native plants, decomposed granite pathways, and mulch, subject to weed-control standards. Under Texas Property Code Section 202.007, HOAs cannot prohibit drought-resistant landscaping or water-conservation turf, though they may require a landscape plan and specify the types of allowed plants. Richardson's landscape ordinance for new construction includes preferences for drought-tolerant and Texas-adapted plants in commercial and multifamily developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my lawn with native plants and gravel?
Will I get a weed citation for letting native grasses grow?
Where can I learn which plants work in Richardson?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richardson
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Richardson 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.