Houston, TX Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Houston Public Works only
- Statute
- TX Transp Code 544.011
- DIY curb paint
- Unenforceable; violation
- Common colors
- Red, yellow, green, white
- Severity
- Moderate: fines plus tow
Summary
Only the City of Houston, through Public Works traffic engineering and Chapter 26 of the Code, may paint or authorize curb-color markings such as red (no parking), yellow (loading), green (short-term), or white (passenger). Texas Transportation Code Section 544.011 makes unofficial curb painting unenforceable.
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Full Breakdown
Curb-color enforcement requires that the marking be installed by or with permission of the local authority. Texas Transportation Code Chapter 544 (Traffic Control Devices) and Section 544.011 specifically authorize political subdivisions to install official curb markings consistent with the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 26 (Traffic and Vehicles) lets Houston Public Works designate red zones (no stopping/standing/parking), yellow zones (loading), green zones (time-limited), and white zones (passenger pickup) along city streets. Property owners cannot paint the curb in front of their property to discourage parking; an unauthorized marking is not a traffic control device and police cannot ticket vehicles based on it. Removal of unofficial paint may be billed to the property owner.
Violations & Fines
Parking against an officially marked curb draws Houston Chapter 26 citations with fines plus possible tow. Painting a curb without City authorization is itself a code violation and can trigger restoration costs charged to the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint my Houston curb red to stop parking in front of my house?
How do I request a red curb on my street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas parking rules overview
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