Little Elm, TX Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Max Vegetation Height
- 12 inches
- Notice Period
- 10 days to abate
- City Abatement
- Mow and charge owner
- Max Fine
- Up to $2,000 per day
- Lien Authority
- TX Local Govt Code 214.902
Summary
Little Elm requires vacant lot owners to keep vegetation below 12 inches and prevent dumping. The town can mow and abate at the owner's expense after notice.
Sec. 342.004. MUNICIPAL POWER CONCERNING WEEDS OR CERTAIN PUBLIC NUISANCES. The governing body of a municipality may require the owner of real property in the municipality to keep the property free from weeds, brush, and a condition constituting a public nuisance as defined by Section 343.011(c)(1), (2), or (3). Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.Amended by: Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 580 (S.B. 837), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.
Sec. 342.005. VIOLATION OF ORDINANCE. The governing body of a municipality may punish an owner or occupant of property in the municipality who violates an ordinance adopted under this subchapter. Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1,
Full Breakdown
Under Little Elm Code of Ordinances Chapter 26 (Environment), owners of vacant and undeveloped lots must keep grass and weeds below 12 inches in height. Lots must be free of accumulated trash, construction debris, and illegally dumped materials. Stagnant water that could serve as a mosquito breeding ground must be drained or treated. The city issues written notice to property owners of record giving at least 10 days to abate violations. If the owner fails to comply, the city may hire contractors to mow, clean, or otherwise abate the condition and charge all costs to the property owner. Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 342 and Local Government Code 214.902, the city may file a lien against the property for unreimbursed abatement costs. With rapid development in master-planned communities like Paloma Creek and Union Park, the town actively monitors undeveloped parcels adjacent to occupied homes.
Violations & Fines
Fine up to $2,000 per day. City may abate and lien property for recovery of cleanup costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to mow a vacant lot?
Can the city mow my vacant lot without permission?
I just bought a lot in a new development. Am I responsible?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Little Elm
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Little Elm to another location·View the Texas property maintenance overview
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Vacant Lot Maintenance in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle vacant lot maintenance.