Invasive Plant Rules in Brick, NJ

Brick maintains 123 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with invasive plant rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Brick falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Prohibited Species

Brick Township prohibits all new in-ground plantings of invasive species like bamboo, kudzu and multiflora rose; existing plantings must stay contained behind physical barriers or the owner faces removal and a lien.

Key details: Rule: New in-ground invasive plantings strictly prohibited. Existing plantings: Must be contained by physical barriers. Max fine: $2,000 or community service per offense. Enforcement: Township may abate and place a lien. Examples: Bamboo, kudzu, multiflora rose, poison ivy.

Fine up to $2,000 or community service per violation, with each day of continued violation a separate offense; unresolved cases can be abated by the Township and billed as a lien on the property.

This is one of the stricter rules in Brick's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Bamboo Restrictions

Brick Township treats running bamboo as a regulated invasive plant: new in-ground plantings are strictly prohibited, and existing stands must stay behind physical barriers so they don't spread onto neighboring property.

Key details: New bamboo plantings: Prohibited township-wide since 2014. Existing bamboo: Must have physical containment barriers. Max fine: $2,000 per violation. Enforcement: Code enforcement inspects on complaint. Unremedied spread: Township removes it, liens property.

Violating the invasive-plants ordinance draws a written 30-day abatement notice, then a fine up to $2,000 or community service per § 233-5; each day of continued violation is a separate offense, and unpaid removal costs become a property lien.

This is one of the stricter rules in Brick's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Brick is tougher than many cities when it comes to invasive plant rules. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Brick, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Brick's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.