North Hempstead, NY Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

L. No. 13-2015), defines 'bamboo' broadly in Section 67-1 to cover any running (monopodial) or clumping (sympodial) tropical or semitropical grass species, naming genera such as Arundinaria, Bambusa, Phyllostachys and Pseudosasa. ' Bamboo that predates the law is treated differently under Section 67-3: it 'may remain on such property,' but the property owner carries an affirmative duty to keep it from encroaching onto any adjoining or neighboring property, including Town-owned rights-of-way, and must install underground sheathing of metal or other bamboo-impenetrable material at sufficient depth to stop the roots from spreading past the property line.

Section 67-4 closes an obvious loophole: once preexisting bamboo dies, is destroyed, uprooted, or otherwise removed, it cannot be replanted or replaced in kind. If bamboo does invade Town-owned property, Section 67-5 requires the Town to send certified and regular mail notice to the property owner and post a copy conspicuously on the property; the owner then has 30 days from the date the Town mailed the notice to clear the bamboo. If the owner misses that window, the Town may remove the bamboo itself and bill the owner for its costs, which can be assessed against the property as a tax lien if unpaid 30 days after demand.

Section 67-6 sets the penalty for any violation of the chapter, whether for illegal new planting or failing to contain preexisting growth, at a fine of $100 to $500, with each day the violation continues counted as a separate offense.