Nashville follows Tennessee state regulations on invasive plants. The Tennessee Exotic Pest Plant Council maintains an invasive plant list. Common invasive species include kudzu, Japanese honeysuckle, privet, and bush honeysuckle.
Nashville's invasive plant enforcement is guided by Tennessee state law and the Tennessee Exotic Pest Plant Council (TN-EPPC). The TN-EPPC maintains a ranked list of invasive exotic plants categorized as Severe Threat, Significant Threat, or Lesser Threat. Severe Threat species in the Nashville area include kudzu (Pueraria montana), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii), and tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Tennessee law (TCA 43-6-103) authorizes the Commissioner of Agriculture to declare noxious weeds and require their control. Nashville's rapid development and abundant green spaces make invasive species management a significant concern. The Cumberland River watershed in Nashville is particularly affected by invasive aquatic plants. Nashville's Parks and Recreation department actively manages invasive species in public parks and greenways. Property owners are encouraged to remove invasive species and replace them with native plants. The Davidson County Extension Office provides guidance on identification and management of invasive species.
No direct penalties for most invasive plants on private property. State-designated noxious weeds must be controlled by law.
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no general Metro Code ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must sta...
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no specific Metro Code ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must remain on the propert...
Nashville, TN
Nashville does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety, nuisance, and historic district rules apply...
Nashville, TN
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Nashville require Metro Codes permits when they include gas lines, plumbing, electrical work, or structures. Built-in grills wi...
Nashville, TN
Nashville treats smokers and solid-fuel cooking devices under the International Fire Code Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code. Use on combustible balconies ...
Nashville, TN
Nashville follows the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code Title 10. Use of propane grills and open-flame cooking devices on co...
See how Nashville's prohibited species rules stack up against other locations.
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