Georgetown, TX Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Georgetown applies a higher vegetation threshold to vacant land than to occupied lots. Under Sec. 8.20.100 (Weeds and Objectionable, Unsightly, or Unwholesome Vegetable Matter on Premises), weeds or grass are a violation when taller than 6 inches on a developed lot (one with a building on it) and taller than 12 inches on an undeveloped lot. Property owners are also required to keep all areas from their property line to the curb free from tall weeds, grass, brush, or objectionable or unsightly vegetation, which applies to vacant parcels fronting a street. Sec. 8.20.080 separately prohibits accumulations of garbage, brush, and refuse on private property outside a building, a common problem on undeveloped lots used for informal dumping. Code Compliance investigates overgrowth and dumping complaints and typically sends the owner notice before abating. Georgetown's municipal authority over vacant-lot upkeep is grounded in Texas Local Government Code Chapter 342, which lets a city require owners to keep real property free of weeds, brush, rubbish, and other nuisances; if the owner does not comply within seven days of notice, the city may do the work and charge the expense to the owner, with a lien available under Sec. 342.007.