Nashville, TN Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)

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.