Shepherd Forest Deed Restrictions

Shepherd Forest is a deed-restricted neighborhood and works with the City of Houston to enforce the deed restrictions outlined below. Deed restrictions are vital to protecting the integrity and appearance of the neighborhood.

For certified copies of the deed restrictions, please visit the Harris County Clerk's Office. 

Original Deed Restrictions
The deed restrictions from 1954 and 1955 are still in effect for Section 1 and Section 2. The original deed restrictions for Section 3 are provided for reference only. 
Amended & Restated Deed Restrictions
The amended deed restrictions were ratified and are in effect for Section 3. The Civic Club is working to collect signatures from homeowners in Section 1 and Section 2 to approve the amended deed restrictions. 
Find which section you are in using these maps

Ready to renovate or build?

Great! Please take a moment to complete the building application for approval of your plans. You must submit any renovation or building plans BEFORE construction begins.

Architectural Guidelines

The Shepherd Forest Architectural Committee upholds the Deed restrictions and ensures that all new building plans are in conformity and harmony with existing homes in our neighborhood. All plans for new construction, along with a building application, must be submitted in writing to the Shepherd Forest Architectural Committee for review and approval.

We encourage you to submit your building plans in the early stages of design so that we can work with you toward the approval of your plans before costs for plan changes are incurred. Note, no work shall take place on your property until after you receive written approval of your plans from the Architectural Committee. 

Please review the general architectural guidelines to assist with your building plan design. 

No parking in yards

Did you know that parking any vehicle on the grass (or any other non-paved surface) is PROHIBITED?

The Prohibited Yard Parking Program is intended to protect neighborhood property values, prevent damage to the City of Houston’s underground infrastructure, and stop the degradation of the aesthetic appearance of single-family residential areas. ​Parking of vehicles on any unimproved surface in the front or side yard within single-family residential areas will be prohibited where a Prohibited Yard Parking Requirement Area has been established.

​Any person who violates the Prohibited Yard Parking Requirement Area shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined up to $150 each day a violation occurs. Shepherd Forest opted into the program several years ago. Report violations by calling 311 (or 713-837-0311), visiting the 311 website, or using the 311 app on your smartphone. Be sure to state that Shepherd Forest is included in the ordinance. This applies to any vehicle (including trailers) parked on a non-paved surface.