Bellaire, TX Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Maximum Height
- 12 inches (same as grass)
- Right-of-Way
- Owner responsible to curb
- City Abatement
- Costs charged to owner
- Code Enforcement
- (713) 662-8222
Summary
Bellaire requires property owners to control weeds on their property as part of general vegetation maintenance. Weeds exceeding 12 inches are treated the same as overgrown grass and trigger code enforcement action. The city may abate weed violations and charge property owners.
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). Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.Amended by: Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 580 (S.B. 837), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.
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. Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1,
Full Breakdown
The City of Bellaire's property maintenance code treats weed growth the same as overgrown grass, requiring all vegetation including weeds to be maintained below 12 inches. Properties with visible weed infestations, even if the grass is mowed, may be cited if the weeds contribute to an unkempt or blighted appearance. The ordinance covers all types of vegetation including broadleaf weeds, noxious plants, volunteer saplings, and invasive species growing in landscapes, fence lines, alleyways, and vacant areas. Property owners are responsible for weed control on their property and within the adjacent right-of-way between their property line and the street curb.
Herbicide application and manual removal are both acceptable methods. The city does not require specific herbicide products or application methods. When Code Enforcement identifies a weed violation, the property owner receives notice and a compliance deadline. If the owner fails to act, the city may hire a contractor to abate the weeds and charge all costs to the property owner. Bellaire's strict enforcement reflects its standards as an affluent residential community. Contact Code Enforcement at (713) 662-8222.
Violations & Fines
Weed violations follow the same enforcement process as overgrown grass. Fines up to $2,000 per violation may be imposed. City abatement costs including administrative fees are charged to the property owner and may result in a lien.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weed height limit in Bellaire?
Am I responsible for weeds in the area between my property and the street?
What happens if I don't control weeds on my property in Bellaire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bellaire
How Bellaire compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Bellaire to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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Weed Ordinances in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle weed ordinances.