Houston Code Chapter 10, Art. XI (Neighborhood Nuisances) and Community Code Enforcement address property blight including overgrown lots, graffiti, trash accumulation, dangerous buildings, and junked vehicles. Fines range from $200 to $2,000.
Under Houston Code Chapter 10 (Buildings and Neighborhood Protection), Community Code Enforcement responds to neighborhood complaints related to overgrown lots (vegetation over 48 inches under Sec. 10-453 and Texas Health & Safety Code Sec. 342.008), dangerous buildings, trash accumulation, junk motor vehicles, graffiti/visual blight, and materials stored in public view. Unauthorized graffiti or visual blight visible from public property or another's private property is a violation. Vacant structures must be secured from unauthorized entry with all doors and windows closed and secured. Fences and accessory structures must be maintained in structurally sound condition. Sewage connections must be maintained in good condition. Houston 3-1-1 handles all blight complaints.
Fines range from $200 to $2,000 per violation. Each day of continued violation is a separate offense. The city may abate weeds and bill the property owner for costs.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle property blight.
See how Houston's property blight rules stack up against other locations.
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