Willis, TX Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 343, 'Abatement of Public Nuisances,' gives Montgomery County broad authority to address blight in unincorporated areas despite lack of zoning power. §343.011 defines nuisances to include keeping improperly disposed weeds over 36 inches visible from public right-of-way, rubbish, trash, dilapidated buildings, stagnant water, and junked vehicles. The county issues written notice with 30-day compliance period under §343.022. If not abated, the county may abate and lien the property for costs under §343.023. Class C misdemeanor up to $500 under §343.012, with each day a separate violation. In Conroe, Code of Ordinances Chapter 38 (Nuisances) and Chapter 22 (Buildings, Minimum Housing Standards) adopt the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) with local amendments: peeling exterior paint, broken windows, structural dilapidation, accumulated trash or junk, overgrown vegetation over 12 inches (Conroe), and inoperable vehicles are violations. Process: inspection, written notice 10-30 days depending on severity, municipal court citation, up to $2,000/day per violation. Abatement and lien authority under Local Govt Code §214.001. The Woodlands Township POA enforces covenants with fines $50-$500 per violation. Flood-damaged structures following Hurricane Harvey (2017) and recurring Lake Conroe overflow are particular focus of nuisance enforcement.