Can my HOA fine me for a landscaping or lawn violation in Texas?

An HOA cannot prohibit drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving turf, though it may require a plan be submitted for approval.

An association may not prohibit or restrict a property owner from using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf, subject to a reasonable approval process for the design.

Before an HOA fines you or suspends a right, it must send written notice by certified mail describing the violation and giving you a reasonable chance to cure.

Before levying a fine or suspending an owner's rights, the association must give written notice sent by certified mail identifying the violation, stating the amount of any fine, and informing the owner of a reasonable period to cure (if the violation is curable) and the right to request a hearing.

You can request a hearing before the board to contest a violation, and requesting one can pause enforcement.

An owner is entitled to request a hearing before the board or a committee to discuss and verify facts before the association may act. The request must be honored under the statutory procedure.

You can request the association's books and records, including its enforcement history.

An owner is entitled to inspect and copy association books and records on written request under the association's records production policy.