Springtime is the season of growth and a time for change. As the days get longer and the grass gets greener, many take this as an opportunity to clean and keep up with home maintenance. Here are some important codes and resources to keep our homes and neighborhoods safe and clean.

Discard Unwanted Items or Waste

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

Garbage Carts

Garbage 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 6:30 a.m. on collection day but not prior to 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 Safety Tips

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

Space Defense

Austin Fire Department has information about making your garden and backyard defensible space for fire safety and how to make your home fire resistant. Read the "Ready, Set, Go" Wildfire Preparedness Guide (PDF).

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.

Home Upkeep

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. Look for cracks and openings where they may enter the home. Prevent mosquitoes by getting rid of standing water.

HVAC System Maintenance

With warmer times ahead make sure the air conditioning system can cool the room. Check 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. 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.

Vehicle Storage

There are a number of regulations concerning the storage of vehicles in a residential area.

  • There must not be more vehicles stored at a residence than there are licensed drivers. Additional vehicles must be in the garage.
  • 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.
  • Residents 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.

Report junked or abandoned vehicles to the Austin Police Department.

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. 

Housing Assistance:

By following these tips, we can make sure that our city stays safe and clean this spring. Download our kid-friendly activity pages (PDF) in English and Spanish and get the whole family involved!