Committee weighs native-lawn exception: staff proposes certification and maintenance rules to balance ecology and neighborhood aesthetics

Bridal Morris, co‑compliance director, presented a proposed framework to allow intentional native-lawn or prairie plantings to qualify as an exception to the city's 12-inch vegetation height limit. Staff proposed a five-step test requiring applicants to establish ecological or historical significance via certification from recognized authorities (Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas A&M AgriLife, NRCS), submit a delineated site plan and maintenance plan, and include fire-risk mitigation and buffers to preserve sightlines and safety.

Committee members and staff debated resource implications and neighbor acceptance. The chair proposed a volunteer certification program (branded in the discussion as "Garland Naturally") intended to keep program costs near zero for the city and rely on trained volunteers and partner organizations for initial review and monitoring. Staff cautioned the program will add workload and enforcement responsibilities and emphasized that certification would not provide immunity from code enforcement for visibility, fire-risk or nuisance violations. The committee agreed to continue the item and explore a 12‑month pilot program.