As the weather warms up, many Austinites take the opportunity to catch up on home maintenance and outdoor upkeep. To support your efforts, we’ve compiled important local codes and helpful resources to ensure our homes and neighborhoods stay safe, clean, and well-maintained.

Home Upkeep Tips and Code Violations

The first step to getting your home or apartment ready for warmer weather is to know what's required in Austin’s property maintenance code. This page highlights common property maintenance issues for spring and how to fix them. If you need to report a violation, you can call 3-1-1, use the 3-1-1 app, or make a report online.

Discard Unwanted Items or Waste

As you are clearing out unwanted items, here are safe and eco-friendly ways to dispose of unwanted items.

Carts

Carts must be returned to their storage area on private property by 10 p.m. on the designated collection day. They should be placed at the curb by 5:30 a.m. on collection day but not before 8 p.m. the evening before. Learn more about collection guidelines and cart sizes.

Garage Sales

More than four garage sales per calendar year is a violation of city code and is considered a home-based business. Garage sale signs may be posted on the property where the sale is occurring for no more than three consecutive days.

Gardening

Grow Green offers numerous publications to help you design, install, and maintain an earth-wise landscape, including resources.

Tree Limbs

Overgrown trees and vegetation can block the view of traffic signals, vehicles or cyclists. Property owners must trim trees hanging over the street and there must be at least 14 feet of clearance at the curb line. Learn about right-of-way maintenance.

Are limbs hampering traffic flow? Is a fallen tree clogging a waterway? Has a tree fallen on utility lines? Is a tree creating a blind spot at an intersection? For any of these issues, call Austin 3-1-1.

The Tree Information Center offers further resources and information on City programs related to trees.

Tree Health

Trees in urban environments help to mitigate heat, stormwater run-off, soil erosion, noise levels, and air pollution. Visit the Tree Health webpage to learn more about tree care, especially during Austin's hotter months.

Maintenance

Ready to make some changes in your home? Check to see if a permit is required by using our Do I Need a Permit interactive tool. 

Bugs and Pests

Many types of insects may start to emerge in the spring. Look for signs of rodents, bed bugs, roaches, fleas, bees, or other pests. They may enter your home through cracks and openings. You can also prevent mosquitoes by getting rid of standing water.

HVAC System Maintenance

With warmer times ahead make sure your air conditioning system in your residence can keep rooms no warmer than 85 degrees, and at least 15 degrees cooler than outside. You can do this by checking if the exhaust pipe is properly connected and the area is kept clear. Learn more about Austin Energy air conditioning rebates and incentives.

Roof Maintenance

Your roof could have suffered some damage during the winter and early spring. Is the roof covering, soffit, and fascia all intact and in good repair? Check for leaks and accumulation of leaves in the rain gutters or downspouts.

See our Home Inspection Guide to learn more.

Vehicle Storage

Here are some regulations about storing vehicles in a residential area:

  • All vehicles must be functional, with the exception of antique vehicles or recreational vehicles. One vehicle under repair for less than 60 days is allowed.
  • You may keep two antique or recreational vehicles, such as a boat or RV, screened behind a 6-foot wood or masonry fence.
  • Only one commercial vehicle (with a capacity less than one ton) may be stored at a residence.

Learn more about these regulations and report junked or abandoned vehicles on the Austin Police Department's webpage. 

Resources for Homeowners and Tenants

Homeowners Assistance

Visit resources for homeowners to see if you qualify for homeowner assistance including repair grants, architectural barrier removal.

Tenant Resources

Visit resources for renters to see if you qualify for tenant resources, including legal consultation, residential rental assistance, utility bill assistance, and more. 

By following these tips, we can make sure that our city stays safe and clean this spring. Visit our Code Compliance Resources webpage to learn more.