Tarrant County, TX Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- County Rule
- None
- HOA Preemption
- TX Prop Code 202.007
- Extension Office
- Tarrant County AgriLife
- Rebates
- Available from utilities
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.
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
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?
What native plants grow well in Tarrant County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tarrant County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Tarrant County to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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