Harris County, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- County Requirement
- None for native plants
- HOA Restrictions
- Limited by TX Property Code
- Xeriscaping
- Protected by state law
- Commercial Sites
- Landscaping required (no native %)
Summary
Harris County has no native plant requirements for residential landscaping in unincorporated areas. No xeriscaping mandates or native plant percentage requirements exist. Texas Property Code §202.007 protects homeowners' right to use drought-resistant landscaping against HOA restrictions.
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
Unincorporated Harris County has no ordinance requiring native plants or specific landscaping materials for residential properties. The county has no zoning-based landscape requirements for single-family homes. Texas Property Code §202.007 prohibits HOAs from restricting water-conserving landscaping and natural turf, including native plant gardens. Harris County's infrastructure regulations require landscaping for commercial development sites but impose no native plant percentages. The Houston-Galveston Area Council promotes native plant use through educational programs but has no enforcement authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Harris County?
Can my HOA require me to maintain a traditional lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Harris County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Harris County to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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