Atlanta, GA Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Regulated species named
- Kudzu, Chinese wisteria
- Height limit
- 12 inches
- Applies to
- Abandoned or vacant lots
- Repeat-violation penalty
- $250 then $500
- Enforcement
- Bureau of Neighborhood Conservation
Summary
Atlanta's vegetation code names kudzu and Chinese wisteria as regulated "weeds" and bars letting them grow past 12 inches on abandoned or vacant lots, backed by notices, city abatement, and liens.
Weed shall mean all unrestricted vegetative growth, including Kudzu (Pueraria Montana var. lobta), Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) and nuisance plants. ... It shall be a violation of this Code for the owner of any abandoned or vacant property ... to permit weeds to obtain a height exceeding 12 inches on at least ten percent of the size of the property tract or 35 percent of the pervious surface, whichever is greater.
Full Breakdown
City Code Chapter 158 defines "weed" to include kudzu and Chinese wisteria by name, then makes it a violation for the owner of any abandoned or vacant property to let weeds exceed 12 inches high on at least 10 percent of the tract or 35 percent of the pervious surface. Growth on exempted land (farms, easements, tracts 40,000+ sq ft outside a platted subdivision) still cannot encroach onto adjacent property or the right-of-way. Code enforcement in the bureau of neighborhood conservation posts and mails a notice requiring abatement.
Violations & Fines
Unabated weeds draw a written notice giving 20 days to comply; the city can then abate and bill the owner, with a lien plus 8% annual interest if unpaid. A second notice within 12 months adds a $250 penalty, a third adds $500, and repeat cases can go to the city attorney for injunctive relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Atlanta ban planting kudzu?
Is my occupied home lot covered?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
Compare Atlanta to another location·View the Georgia invasive plant rules overview
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Prohibited Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle prohibited species.