Truth or Myth: Is it illegal to pick or mow bluebonnets in Texas? Here's your answer

Brandi D. Addison, USA TODAY NETWORK
·1 min read

It's a widely held belief that it's illegal to pick or mow over bluebonnets in Texas. That's just a myth.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, there is no specific law protecting the state flower. Instead, there are several laws related to rights-of-way, property damage, or trespassing, along with vehicle laws.

More: Here's the reason some Texas bluebonnets are maroon — (yes, it's an Aggie thing)

When is it legal and illegal to pick a bluebonnet in Texas

While picking a few flowers might be allowed, actions like uprooting large clusters of bluebonnets, mowing without consent, or driving into a field of flowers are prohibited under those adjacent laws. Additionally, in Texas State Parks, it's against the law to pick, cut, or destroy any plant life on park grounds.

Furthermore, it's illegal to impede traffic to stop for bluebonnet photos or viewing.

Map: Where is the best place to see Texas bluebonnets in 2024?

How to safely stop roadside for bluebonnet viewing in Texas

DPS encourages motorists to be mindful of their surroundings to ensure they are not impeding traffic. Here are a few tips.

  • Select areas with light traffic conditions.

  • Signal before leaving or entering the roadway.

  • Exercise caution when reducing speed.

  • Park off the roadway, parallel to the road in the direction of traffic.

  • Avoid crossing lanes of traffic on foot to reach the flowers.

  • Adhere to signs that prohibit parking on specific stretches of roadway.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: No, it's not actually illegal to pick or mow bluebonnets in Texas