Native Plants: White Plains vs Yonkers

Can I convert my White Plains lawn to a native meadow?

Yes, if it's a managed, intentional planting with defined borders. Uncontrolled overgrowth may still trigger property maintenance notices.

Are pollinator gardens allowed in White Plains front yards?

Yes. Native and pollinator-friendly plantings are encouraged citywide as long as they're maintained and don't violate overgrowth rules.

Do I need permission to plant a rain garden in White Plains?

No permission is needed for a residential-scale rain garden, but larger stormwater features may be subject to review.

Can I replace my Yonkers lawn with a wildflower meadow?

Yes, provided it's clearly intentional and maintained. Unmanaged overgrowth can still trigger property maintenance enforcement.

Does Yonkers require native plants?

No. Yonkers has no native-plant mandate and does not prohibit conventional lawns. Native and pollinator gardens are permitted, and intentional naturalistic meadows are allowed if maintained.

Do wetland rules affect Yonkers landscaping?

Yes. Hudson River valley sites adjacent to wetlands may fall under NYS DEC wetland buffers where native vegetation is encouraged or required during permitted work.