Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Cambridge

Cambridge, MA Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Enforcing official
Commissioner of Public Works
Daily fine
$100 per day
Barrier depth required
At least 36 inches below grade
Barrier height above grade
At least 2 inches
Encroachment trigger distance
Within 4 feet of property line
Governing ordinance
Ord. 1395 (2017), Ch. 8.69

Summary

Anyone in Cambridge with running bamboo must keep it from spreading onto a neighbor's land or city property. The Running Bamboo Ordinance requires a specific underground barrier system, or an enclosed above-ground planter, and owners who let bamboo escape face a $100-per-day fine plus the city's removal costs.

A seamless barrier composed of high density polypropylene, or polyethylene, or a metal barrier with sealed, overlapping and reinforced seams, or an impermeable joint free concrete barrier. The barrier must extend at least 36 inches below the ground surface, and the barrier must extend at least 2 inches above the ground surface for the entire length of the installation, and the installation must extend such that the possibility of flanking the barrier system is not possible.

View official code

Full Breakdown

69, the Running Bamboo Ordinance (Ord. 030(B)). 050(A)). 050(A)(1)-(2)). 050(B)). 060). 030(C)).

Violations & Fines

A Running Bamboo Owner who fails to confine bamboo, or fails to comply with a Commissioner's removal order once bamboo has spread onto City property, faces a fine of $100 per day under § 8.69.070, enforceable through noncriminal disposition under G.L. c. 40, § 21D, plus liability for the City's cost of removing the bamboo and installing a barrier under § 8.69.060(F)-(G).

Frequently Asked Questions

What barrier does Cambridge require to contain running bamboo?
Section 8.69.050(A)(1) calls for a seamless high-density polypropylene, polyethylene, or metal barrier with sealed, reinforced seams, or a joint-free concrete barrier, extending at least 36 inches below ground and 2 inches above ground for the whole installation so the bamboo cannot get around it.
What if my bamboo spreads onto my neighbor's yard?
If it encroaches beyond your property, you are a Running Bamboo Owner under § 8.69.030(C) and must confine it under § 8.69.050, unless you prove you did not plant it and gave the neighbor written certified-mail notice of objection within a year of discovering the spread.
What happens if bamboo spreads onto City property?
The Commissioner of Public Works sends a certified-mail order to remove the bamboo and install a barrier. If the owner ignores it, the City can remove the bamboo and build the barrier itself, then bill the owner for the full cost under § 8.69.060.
How much can a Cambridge property owner be fined for uncontained bamboo?
Section 8.69.070 sets a fine of $100 per day for as long as the running bamboo remains unconfined or the owner is otherwise violating the Chapter, enforced through the noncriminal ticketing process in G.L. c. 40, § 21D.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Cambridge

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: BeekeepingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Store RulesHeavy Restrictions

All Cambridge rules

Compare Cambridge to another location·View the Massachusetts invasive plant rules overview

Get notified when Bamboo Restrictions in Cambridge, MA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.