Franklin Township, PA Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 10, Part 3, adopted by Ord. 2018-01 on 9/26/2018, targets monopodial running bamboo genera Phyllostachys and Pseudosasa, including yellow groove, golden and arrow bamboo, because of their damaging spread onto neighboring and public property. Section 10-302 makes bamboo found growing on a property presumptive evidence that the bamboo owner planted or consented to it, unless it clearly encroached from elsewhere. The core rule bans bamboo within 40 feet of the edge of the pavement or traveled portion of any public roadway, and requires existing bamboo owners to remove and abate growth inside that 40-foot band.

Separately, every bamboo plant, whether growing in open ground, a container, or behind a barrier, must be located, trimmed and maintained so no stalk, branch, leaf or root extends nearer than 10 feet to any property line. Rhizomes removed during eradication may only be disposed of by incineration, with Township verification and authorization; composting or trash disposal is barred outright. 4 but owners must keep it from encroaching onto neighboring or public property, including installing impenetrable metal sheathing if needed. If bamboo invades Township property, the Township sends a certified-mail encroachment notice, and if the owner does not remove it or arrange removal within 30 days, the Township may remove it and lien the property for the cost.