Bill > HB1432

This bill modifies Texas property law to expand homeowners' rights regarding water conservation and landscaping practices within property owners' associations (HOAs). Specifically, the bill prevents HOAs from prohibiting or restricting homeowners from implementing several environmentally friendly practices, including composting vegetation, installing rain barrels or rainwater harvesting systems, using efficient irrigation systems, using drought-resistant landscaping instead of natural turf, and using water-conserving natural turf. While the bill does not completely remove HOA regulatory powers, it significantly limits their ability to restrict these practices. HOAs can still regulate certain aesthetic aspects, such as the size, type, and location of composting devices, rain barrels, and landscaping installations, but cannot outright prohibit them. A key new provision requires HOAs to accept simple outline diagrams for landscaping changes and prevents them from mandating expensive professional landscape plans. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving HOAs and homeowners time to prepare for the new regulations, and aims to promote water conservation and more sustainable landscaping practices in residential communities.

Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1432