Yonkers, NY Invasive Plant Rules: Bamboo Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 82, adopted in 2014, splits bamboo into two regulatory tracks. Running bamboo, defined by its monopodial rhizome root system and covering genera like Phyllostachys and Sasa, cannot be planted, replanted, installed or reinstalled anywhere in Yonkers, including one- and two-family residences, under § 82-1(A); there is no permit path around this ban. Clumping bamboo (sympodial rhizome genera such as Bambusa and Fargesia) is not banned outright, but § 82-1(B) requires the owner or occupant to register with the Department of Housing and Buildings and obtain a $25 permit before planting.

Section 82-1(C) then imposes an affirmative duty to confine any bamboo already on the property, including installing a sheathing barrier impenetrable by bamboo roots, at least 18 inches deep along the property line, to stop it from spreading onto neighboring land or a right-of-way. Section 82-1(F) creates a rebuttable presumption: if any bamboo is found to have spread onto another property or right-of-way, it is presumed to be the banned running type. Section 82-1(G) adds a height cap: bamboo planted within 10 feet of a public street or right-of-way, or within 5 feet of a building, cannot exceed 15 feet, and stalks or roots cannot interfere with utility lines.

Owners get written notice of any violation and 30 days to cut, trim or remove noncompliant bamboo before being deemed in violation under § 82-1(E).