Vacant lots in Mesquite must be kept mowed (grass under 12 inches), free of debris, and secured. Owners are billed for City abatement if neglected per TX H&S Ch. 342.
Owners of vacant lots in Mesquite are responsible for maintenance under Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 342 and the City Code. Grass and weeds may not exceed 12 inches in height. The lot must be kept free of trash, illegally dumped debris, abandoned vehicles, and stagnant water. If the lot is fenced, the fence must be maintained in good repair. Vacant structures must be secured against unauthorized entry — broken windows boarded with painted plywood and doors locked. Code Compliance issues a notice of violation with a 10-day cure period (7 days for repeat offenders). If the owner fails to act, the City contracts mowing or cleanup and assesses costs plus an administrative fee against the property. Unpaid charges become a lien superior to all liens except tax liens. For undeveloped lots in subdivisions, developers and HOAs may share enforcement responsibility. Out-of-town owners are still responsible — notices are mailed to the address on file with Dallas Central Appraisal District.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Mesquite code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Mesquite, TX
Mesquite allows gas-powered leaf blowers and lawn equipment during daytime hours, generally 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., with no city-wide gas blower ban.
Mesquite, TX
Outdoor music in Mesquite is allowed but cannot be plainly audible at neighboring residences after 10 p.m.; commercial venues need special event permits.
Mesquite, TX
Commercial vehicles over 1 ton or with commercial markings cannot park on Mesquite residential streets overnight; semi-trucks and trailers face stricter limits.
Mesquite, TX
Overnight on-street parking is generally allowed in Mesquite where not signed otherwise, but vehicles cannot remain in the same spot for more than 48-72 hours.
Mesquite, TX
On-street parking in Mesquite is allowed where not signed otherwise; vehicles must park with the flow of traffic and cannot block driveways, hydrants, or sig...
Mesquite, TX
Mesquite limits residential fences to 8 feet in rear/side yards and 4 feet in front yards, with corner-lot visibility triangles enforced for traffic safety.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle vacant lot maintenance.
See how Mesquite's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
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