Hidalgo County, TX Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Texas gives counties limited authority over high weeds under Health & Safety Code Section 343.011(c), which treats as a public nuisance weeds allowed to grow to an excessive height on property in a platted subdivision or within a set distance of a residence or commercial establishment. Hidalgo County uses this authority through its Nuisance Abatement Program to address weedy lots reported by neighbors. The process starts with verification and owner contact; an initial mowing warning gives about five business days, then a certified letter allows 31 days to mow or request a hearing. If the owner still does not mow, the county mows the parcel and liens it if unpaid. Enforcement follows the statutory nuisance standard, not a posted height.