Dallas County, TX Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- County program
- None operated countywide
- Typical rebate
- 25 cents to 1 dollar per square foot
- Approved plants
- Texas SmartScape list
- Mandate level
- Voluntary only
Summary
Dallas County does not run a turf replacement rebate, but member cities and water utilities including Dallas, Frisco, and Plano offer SmartScape and turf-conversion incentives. Programs are voluntary and aim to reduce summer irrigation demand.
Sec. 202.007. CERTAIN RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS PROHIBITED. (a) A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from: (1) implementing measures promoting solid-waste composting of vegetation ...; (2) installing rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system; (3) implementing efficient irrigation systems, including underground drip or other drip systems; or (4) using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf. (b) A provision that violates Subsection (a) is void. (c) A property owners' association may restrict the type of turf used by a property owner in the planting of new turf to encourage or require water-conserving turf.
Full Breakdown
Through partnerships with NTMWD and Dallas Water Utilities, several Dallas County cities offer rebates of 25 cents to 1 dollar per square foot for converting cool-season turf to drought-tolerant landscaping or permeable hardscape. Programs typically require pre-approval, photos, native or adapted plant lists, and irrigation conversion to drip. The state allows artificial turf, but local HOA rules vary. The county itself implements xeriscape principles on county facility grounds and supports the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Earth-Kind program. There is no mandatory turf removal in Dallas County.
Violations & Fines
Because programs are voluntary, there are no penalties for failing to participate. Property owners who falsify rebate applications may be required to repay rebates plus fees, and homeowners who violate HOA landscaping rules face HOA enforcement separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dallas County pay me to remove my lawn?
Can my HOA stop me from xeriscaping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas County to another location·View the Texas water use rules overview
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