Invasive Plant Rules in Seattle, WA (2026)
4 verified invasive plant rules for Seattle, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Bamboo Restrictions
Seattle does not have a specific ordinance banning or restricting bamboo. However, running bamboo that spreads onto neighboring properties or public rights-of-way may be addressed as a nuisance under city code. Washington state noxious weed laws do not list bamboo.
Bamboo Restrictions in Seattle
Few RestrictionsProhibited Species
Seattle follows the Washington State Noxious Weed List and King County's noxious weed regulations. Property owners must control Class A, B, and C noxious weeds. Common prohibited species include knotweed, Scotch broom, English ivy, and Himalayan blackberry.
Prohibited Plant Species in Seattle
Some RestrictionsRCW 17.10 / WAC Chapter 16-750 — Washington's Noxious Weed Laws (Classes A, B, C)
The State's Noxious Weed List is Organized into Three Classes of Weeds: Class A, B, and C. Class A Weeds — Class A weeds are mostly newcomers to Washington, and are generally rare. The goal is to completely eradicate them before they gain a foothold. Landowners are required to completely eradicate Class A weeds. (Eradicating weeds means getting rid of the plants altogether, including plant root...
Front Yard Gardens
Seattle allows front yard food gardens and edible landscaping. The city actively encourages urban agriculture through P-Patch community gardens and residential food production. No permit is needed for front yard gardens that comply with vegetation height limits.
Front Yard Garden Regulations in Seattle
Few RestrictionsTree-of-Heaven Removal
Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is a Class C noxious weed in King County. Property owners are encouraged to control it; nurseries are barred from selling it. The species hosts spotted lanternfly, a feared invasive pest.
Tree of Heaven Listed by King County Noxious Weed Board
Some RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Seattle city rules.
Invasive Plant Rules in King County →