Harris County, TX Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 343
- Enforcement
- Harris Co. Public Health
- Buffer Zone
- 300 ft from residences
- Cure Period
- 30 days
- Complaint Line
- 713-274-6300 (HC 311)
Summary
Harris County enforces the Texas Neighborhood Nuisance Abatement Act for weeds and overgrown vegetation in unincorporated areas. Weeds within 300 feet of residences or commercial establishments can be cited. Property owners get 30 days to comply after notice.
Sec. 342.004. MUNICIPAL POWER CONCERNING WEEDS OR CERTAIN PUBLIC NUISANCES. The governing body of a municipality may require the owner of real property in the municipality to keep the property free from weeds, brush, and a condition constituting a public nuisance as defined by Section 343.011(c)(1), (2), or (3). Sec. 342.005. VIOLATION OF ORDINANCE. The governing body of a municipality may punish an owner or occupant of property in the municipality who violates an ordinance adopted under this subchapter. Sec. 342.006. WORK OR IMPROVEMENTS BY MUNICIPALITY; NOTICE.
Full Breakdown
Harris County Public Health Environmental Public Health division investigates weed and overgrown vegetation complaints in unincorporated areas under the Texas Neighborhood Nuisance Abatement Act (TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 343). The law defines nuisances to include: weeds within 300 feet of residences or commercial establishments; conditions that attract mosquitoes, rodents, or pests; and accumulation of rubbish or refuse. Complaints are filed through Harris County 311. After investigation, property owners receive a nuisance notification and have 30 days to eliminate the condition. Non-compliance can result in civil action or criminal prosecution. The county can also address standing water conditions that breed mosquitoes, which is particularly relevant in flood-prone Harris County.
Violations & Fines
30-day notice to cure. Non-compliance: civil action or criminal prosecution. Each day of ongoing violation may be a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weed violations can I be cited for in unincorporated Harris County?
How do I report weeds on a neighbor's property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Harris County
How Harris County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Harris County to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.