A bamboo ordinance is a set of local regulations designed to control the planting, containment, and removal of bamboo, particularly invasive species such as running bamboo. These ordinances have been enacted in municipalities across New Jersey and Pennsylvania to address the widespread issues caused by uncontained bamboo growth.
Update: New Jersey Invasive Species Management Act (2026)
In 2026, New Jersey adopted the Invasive Species Management Act (Assembly Bill A4137), which formally classifies running bamboo (Phyllostachys) as a prohibited invasive species at the state level.
While this state law does not replace or override local bamboo ordinances, it provides new context for how municipalities, HOAs, real estate professionals, and homeowners view bamboo-related issues.
Local bamboo ordinances remain the primary mechanism for enforcement, fines, and compliance requirements. However, the State’s classification of running bamboo as an invasive species may make it easier for municipalities to adopt, amend, or enforce bamboo regulations moving forward.
For a detailed explanation of the State law, what it means, and what it does not require, see our full guide here: New Jersey’s Invasive Species Management Act & Bamboo
While bamboo can be a beautiful and functional plant, its aggressive underground rhizomes allow it to spread rapidly. Many homeowners and local governments have found that uncontrolled bamboo can:
- Encroach onto neighboring properties
- Damage foundations, sidewalks, and sewer lines
- Disrupt local ecosystems and native plant life
- Create legal disputes between property owners
Due to these concerns, townships and municipalities have implemented strict ordinances requiring homeowners to manage existing bamboo or remove it entirely if it violates local regulations.
Why Have Bamboo Ordinances Been Put Into Effect?
Bamboo ordinances exist because of the unique challenges that running bamboo presents. Unlike typical landscaping plants, running bamboo can spread underground through its vast rhizome system, making it difficult to control without proper barriers or professional removal services.
These regulations aim to:
- Prevent property damage: Bamboo roots can grow under driveways, into foundations, and even break through asphalt and concrete.
- Protect neighboring properties: Homeowners with bamboo may unintentionally cause issues for neighbors when the plant spreads beyond their property lines.
- Ensure environmental responsibility: Bamboo can outcompete native vegetation, harming local ecosystems.
- Resolve legal conflicts: Ordinances provide a framework to address disputes over bamboo encroachment, ensuring fairness for all property owners.
Get a Guaranteed Bamboo Removal Quote Today
How State-Level Invasive Species Classification Affects Local Bamboo Ordinances
Local bamboo ordinances existed long before the State of New Jersey formally classified running bamboo as an invasive species. These ordinances were typically adopted in response to repeated property damage, neighbor disputes, and enforcement challenges at the municipal level.
The Invasive Species Management Act does not automatically change the language of existing bamboo ordinances. However, it may influence how municipalities approach bamboo regulation in several ways:
- Providing state-level recognition that running bamboo poses economic and environmental harm
- Offering stronger justification for ordinance enforcement beyond planting bans alone
- Supporting regulations related to containment, spread, and remediation, not just installation
- Aligning local ordinances with broader state policy on invasive species control
Homeowners should continue to look to their specific township or municipal ordinance to understand their obligations, while recognizing that state policy now clearly discourages the continued spread of running bamboo.
How Can Bamboo Ordinances Affect Homeowners?
For homeowners who already have bamboo on their property, a newly enacted ordinance can create uncertainty. Many homeowners did not plant the bamboo themselves but inherited it when they purchased the property. Navigating compliance with these new regulations can be confusing and stressful.
Some common issues homeowners face include:
- Understanding whether their bamboo is in violation
- Determining the difference between pre-existing vs. post-ordinance bamboo growth
- Figuring out containment options vs. full removal
- Dealing with potential complaints from neighbors or township officials
- Budgeting for removal or mitigation efforts
Navigating the Bamboo Removal Process
New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping works with homeowners, neighbors, and townships daily to ensure compliance with local bamboo ordinances. Our team specializes in ordinance-compliant removals and can guide homeowners through every step of the process, ensuring that the township is satisfied with the scope of work.
What We Offer:
✔ Ordinance Review & Consultation – We read and interpret your township’s specific bamboo ordinance and explain what it means for you.
✔ Pre-Existing vs. Post-Ordinance Guidance – We clarify what parts of your bamboo grove may be grandfathered in and what needs to be removed.
✔ Proposal & Documentation – We provide a comprehensive removal or containment proposal that can be submitted to the township for approval before any work begins.
✔ Professional Bamboo Removal – We offer expert excavation, barrier installation, and ordinance-compliant disposal to ensure full compliance.
✔ Legal & HOA Assistance – We have been hired as expert witnesses to write reports for homebuyers, townships, homeowners’ associations, and, in rare cases, legal disputes.
Why Choose New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping?
With over 15 years of experience in bamboo removal and containment, we are the go-to experts for ordinance-compliant bamboo solutions. Alex, the founder of New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping, has provided expert reports for homebuyers, municipalities, and HOAs, ensuring that bamboo-related issues are resolved professionally and efficiently.
Our expertise ensures that:
✔ The township is satisfied with the work completed
✔ Homeowners receive all required documentation
✔ The scope of work meets township specifications
✔ Future bamboo regrowth is prevented with proper barriers
Frequently Asked Questions About Bamboo Ordinances
1. I just bought my home and discovered bamboo on my property. Am I responsible for its removal?
Yes, even if the bamboo was planted by a previous owner, you are responsible for ensuring it does not violate local ordinances. We can help you determine your responsibilities and provide guidance on the best course of action.
2. Do I need to remove all my bamboo, or can I keep some of it?
This depends on your township’s regulations. Some municipalities allow homeowners to keep bamboo if it is contained properly, while others require complete removal. We can read the ordinance for you and provide the best recommendations.
3. What if my neighbor’s bamboo is invading my property?
Many ordinances place responsibility on the property owner where the bamboo originated. If you’re dealing with encroaching bamboo from a neighboring yard, we can assess the situation and help you determine the best approach to resolve the issue.
4. Will I get fined for non-compliance?
Fines vary by township, but some municipalities impose significant penalties for failure to comply with bamboo ordinances. Taking action sooner rather than later can help you avoid costly fines and legal complications.
5. How do I get started with bamboo removal?
Contact New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping for a consultation. We will assess your property, review your township’s ordinance, and develop a plan tailored to your situation.
Get Ordinance Compliant Bamboo Removal Today!
If you need bamboo removal services in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping is here to help. We work with homeowners, municipalities, and HOAs to ensure complete compliance with local ordinances.
Call or Text us at 908-955-3226
Email us at Newjerseybamboo@gmail.com
Visit us at www.njbamboo.com
Let us take the stress out of bamboo ordinance compliance—contact us today!
Recent Comments