H.B. No. 517 amends the Texas Property Code by adding Section 202.008, which establishes limitations on property owners' associations' authority to assess fines for discolored vegetation or turf during periods of residential watering restrictions. The bill defines "residential watering restriction" as a temporary limitation on water use for irrigation mandated by municipalities or water suppliers to conserve water during drought conditions. Under this new provision, property owners' associations are prohibited from fining property owners for violations of restrictive covenants related to maintaining green vegetation or turf when such discoloration is a direct result of these watering restrictions.

Additionally, the bill specifies that fines cannot be assessed during the period of the watering restriction and for up to 60 days after the restriction is lifted. This legislation aims to protect property owners from penalties for circumstances beyond their control, particularly during drought conditions when water conservation measures are in place. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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