Piscataway, NJ Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

PM 303.9 of the Property Maintenance Code targets bamboo specifically "to protect and promote the public health through the control of the growth of bamboo" (PM 303.9-1). PM 303.9-2 defines bamboo broadly as "all native and non-native variations of the plant commonly known as bamboo" (excluding Nadina), noting these plants "may damage trees, vegetation, or structures." The rule reaches any bamboo rooted in open ground: PM 303.9-4a states that once bamboo is "found planted in the ground on any plot of land, lot or any other premises or place," the Township Zoning Officer, Property Maintenance official, or the Mayor's designee (the "enforcing officer" under PM 303.9-2) must serve a written notice of violation on the owner and any tenant, giving a specified deadline to remove or abate it.

Containerized bamboo is exempt: the code carves out bamboo "whose root system is entirely contained within a pot or other acceptable containment system... that prevents contact with surrounding soil." PM 303.9-3 authorizes the enforcing officer to inspect any Piscataway premises when there is reason to believe the section is being violated. If the owner or tenant misses the deadline, PM 303.9-4c lets the Township remove the bamboo itself and recover its costs; if the responsible party does not reimburse the Township within 30 days of demand, the unpaid balance is added directly to the property's next tax bill as a lien mechanism.

PM 303.9-4d sets the penalty for violating the section or ignoring a removal notice at a fine of not less than $250 and not greater than $2,000 upon conviction after a summons, and the Township may pursue both the summons and cost recovery.