Are You Blowing Debris Into the Streets in Texas? It’s Illegal

It's 8 a.m. I'm driving to work on Buffalo Gap Road, which by the way, is no longer under construction, and I spot two guys wearing bright yellow vests with blower vacs clearing debris. Only they weren’t bagging it. Nope! They were blowing it straight into the street. And here’s the kicker: I’m pretty sure they were part of the road construction crew. Yes, these two guys are breaking the law.

Blowing Grass or Leaves Into the Street Is Illegal in Texas

Let’s get this out of the way: blowing your lawn clippings, leaves, or trash into the street isn’t just a harmless habit, it violates city, state, and even federal regulations.

According to the City of Abilene Code of Ordinances, this act violates city code because it clogs drainage systems, causes flooding hazards, and impacts local water quality.

Read More: Texas Game Wardens Say This Will Keep You Alive on the Water

But there’s more. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also considers it a federal issue because grass clippings and leaves washed into storm drains carry pollutants that end up in creeks, rivers, and lakes. And for you bikers out there, wet grass and leaves can be as slick as ice. It’s a real danger to motorcycle riders.

What Could Happen If You Get Caught?

The City of Abilene says you could be issued a municipal court citation. If you ignore the citation and don’t clean up, the city can do it for you—and slap the cost onto your property as a lien. That’s right, a lien on your property for leaf blowing!

Learn more from: Abilene Solid Waste Services.

A Better Way: Bag It, Don’t Blow It

Instead of blowing your yard waste into the street, bag it up or mulch it. It’s better for your neighborhood, your local lakes, and your wallet.

And here’s a reminder from yours truly: just because you see workers doing it doesn’t mean it’s legal. If you’re unsure about the rules, check out the city ordinances. You’ll be surprised how many small things we do out of habit are actually against the law.