Abington, PA Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

Section 108-12.C, added October 9, 2014 by Ordinance No. 2055, targets monopodial running bamboo genera including Bambusa, Phyllostachys, Fallopia and Pseudosasa. Its prohibition clause bars planting or growing bamboo anywhere in the township after the ordinance's effective date, with limited container or engineered-barrier exceptions requiring a Township compliance inspection and permit. For bamboo already growing before the effective date, the code lets it remain only if kept at least 10 feet from any pavement, sidewalk or public road, with the aboveground portion trimmed back to at least 20 feet from those same boundaries.

Bamboo found growing on a property is presumptive evidence the property owner, tenant or person in control planted or is growing it, unless that person documents having objected to a neighbor's encroaching bamboo and taken steps, including legal remedies, to have it removed. If an owner does not remove noncompliant bamboo within 30 days of a Township removal notice, the Township can remove it itself and bill the owner for the cost, including attorneys' fees, which can be assessed as a lien on the property. Replanting bamboo that later dies or is removed is barred unless the new planting meets the barrier and setback rules.