Garland's changing how they handle code violations, like overgrown lawns. Instead of criminal court, they're switching to a civil system starting in September 2026, aiming to make things quicker and more about fixing problems than slapping fines.
At a glance
Declining — being discussed less frequently. 1 mention in the last 30 days, 6 the 60 before, 20 the 90 before that.
Property owners may face costs for repairs or city-led cleanups.
Neighbors and the surrounding community benefit from improved property conditions and safety.
Property owners who are found in violation may face significant financial penalties or legal action.
The city is cracking down on properties that have fallen into disrepair. This helps keep neighborhoods safe and prevents issues like pests or structural hazards from affecting nearby homes.
The city needs to tighten up how it tracks contractors working on city streets to ensure they have valid insurance and registration. This helps keep our infrastructure safe and ensures the city isn't missing out on fees.
The city is moving to a civil enforcement model for code violations. It's designed to be faster and less punitive than the old criminal court system, with a new volunteer program to help seniors in need.
Garland is switching to a faster, ticket-based system for code violations like tall grass. It's meant to clean up neighborhoods quickly, but there's a new 'Garland Cares' program to help seniors and those who can't afford to fix issues.
The city is updating its fireworks ordinance to make it easier for police to hold homeowners accountable for illegal fireworks displays at their parties.
The committee is looking at the city's rules for grading land during development. They want to make sure new construction blends in with existing neighborhoods and doesn't cause issues, while still allowing for necessary growth.
The city is looking to amend its fireworks ordinance to strengthen enforcement against property owners where illegal fireworks or firearms are used, aiming to enhance public safety.
Commissioners discussed the adequacy of existing parking and the requirements for enhanced landscaping, particularly for the drive-thru restaurant proposal. They emphasized the need for improvements that balance functionality with aesthetics.
Residents expressed concerns that the short-term rental property's operation negatively impacts their neighborhood's safety and quality of life, citing issues like excessive noise, traffic, and a constant stream of unfamiliar individuals.
The council approved the consent agenda, which included various routine items like minutes, bids for city services, zoning changes, and development agreements.
The city is moving from a criminal citation system for code violations to a civil one. This aims to be more efficient and focus on helping residents comply, with a 90-day education period before citations begin.
A resident raised concerns about a three-year-old child being barred from checking out books due to a past account issue that predates the child's birth. The resident requested an investigation.
Staff needs clearer definitions and more enforcement leverage to address property maintenance issues like stored building materials. They discussed how to define 'active projects' and distinguish between art and trash.
The council debated whether to allow convenience stores in a newly zoned neighborhood services district near a park and residential areas. Concerns were raised about potential negative impacts like litter and increased traffic, leading to a denial of that specific use.
The city is proposing a shift from criminal citations to a civil citation program for code violations, aiming for better compliance through education and less punitive measures. This includes a grace period, warnings, and a photo-based system for proving compliance, which could reduce fines.
The board received training on how to handle appeals when a food service permit is revoked. This ensures they are prepared to make fair decisions that impact local businesses.
Residents are concerned about code violations and the upkeep of properties, especially rental units. The city is strengthening code enforcement with a new civil citation system and a program to help residents with repairs, aiming for compliance without undue punishment.
The city is implementing strategies to manage and remove homeless encampments from public parks. This includes using "no camping" signs to expedite removals and contracting services for faster cleanups. The goal is to maintain park safety and usability for residents.
The city is reporting significant crime reductions, but residents are urged to be vigilant against specific issues like building burglaries and quality-of-life offenses.
The Code Compliance department is undergoing significant changes to improve efficiency and customer service. This includes cross-training inspectors, a new enforcement model, and technology upgrades, aiming for faster resolution of issues and a cleaner city appearance.
Residents near Rick Oden Park are complaining about loud music, vehicle burnouts, and damage to the park facilities. The city is considering installing gates to restrict vehicle access after certain hours.
The city is considering a new approach to code compliance that would involve lower initial fines and a system where residents can prove they've fixed violations to get fines waived. The goal is to make the process more efficient and less burdensome.
The city is looking to clarify the definitions of structures like carports and "port-a-casiers" to ensure clear regulations. This aims to distinguish between different types of vehicle shelters and architectural features, making rules easier to understand and enforce.
A resident raised concerns about code compliance enforcement, emphasizing that some individuals may lack the financial resources to meet requirements, even with extended timelines. The council was urged to consider these financial limitations.
The committee was set to consider limiting parking on Wood Drive in an industrial zone. This could affect businesses and traffic flow in the area.
A new civil citation program is proposed to make code enforcement quicker and more effective. This would involve issuing citations for common violations like property upkeep, with a fee structure designed to encourage compliance.
The city is looking to update its definitions and regulations for smoke shops and vape shops to make it easier for code enforcement to distinguish them from traditional tobacco and cigar shops. The goal is to address concerns about businesses that may be primarily selling vaping products or related paraphernalia, and to improve the clarity of zoning and enforcement processes.
Residents are concerned about crime rates, particularly vehicle burglaries and theft. The police department is working on strategies and encouraging residents to take preventative measures.
Two properties with significant fire damage were deemed substandard structures. The board ordered owners to repair, remove, or demolish them within set deadlines, with penalties for non-compliance.
The council reviewed two requests for variances allowing alcohol sales establishments to be located closer than 300 feet to churches, with one approved and the other under discussion.
The commission discussed the appropriate duration for special use permits for new laundromats, balancing applicant needs with city policy and market saturation concerns.
The city is considering changes to its carport ordinance to ensure new and existing carports are compatible with the style and materials of the main house and neighborhood. The aim is to balance the need for affordable vehicle protection with maintaining aesthetic standards.
The Garland Cares Tool Loan Assistance Program is an extension of the Garland Cares Compliance Assistance Program. The program is designed to help qualifying residents address minor property maintenan
Jump to FAQBuilding a Better Garland Together – that’s not just a phrase. It’s the shared commitment that guides how we approach neighborhoods, property standards and the quality of life every family in...
City News (home) Posted on April 30, 2026 The City of Garland has announced new roles for proven leaders Mandy...
Follow this issue in Garland
Get an alert when it comes back up at City Hall — one plain-English email a week.
Free. Unsubscribe with one click any time. We never sell your email.