Charlotte encourages but does not mandate native plantings for residential landscapes. The UDO's tree protection and landscape standards allow native species as preferred alternatives. The Charlotte Tree Canopy Action Plan targets 50% tree canopy. Invasive species like Bradford pear, Chinese privet, and kudzu are discouraged but not banned for residential use.
Charlotte's landscape regulations come primarily from the UDO Article 13 (landscape standards for non-residential and multifamily sites) and Article 21 (tree ordinance). Single-family residential yards are largely unregulated for plant choice, though tree removal is subject to the tree ordinance.
Native plant encouragement: The Charlotte Tree Canopy Action Plan (2017, updated) targets 50% tree canopy citywide. The UDO §13 landscape standards allow and encourage native species for required buffers and parking lot landscaping. Approved planting lists maintained by the City Arborist emphasize: - Canopy trees: Willow oak, red oak, tulip poplar, American elm, sweetgum, river birch - Understory: Dogwood, redbud, serviceberry, sourwood, fringetree - Shrubs: Inkberry, sweetspire, winterberry holly, oakleaf hydrangea - Ground cover and perennials: Native asters, black-eyed Susan, coreopsis, muhly grass
Invasive species: The NC Native Plant Society and NC Botanical Garden maintain lists of invasives (Bradford pear/Callery pear, Chinese privet, English ivy, nandina, autumn olive, kudzu, tree-of-heaven). Charlotte has not banned residential sale or planting of these species, though the UDO prohibits their use in required landscape plantings.
HOA rules: Most Charlotte HOAs have approved plant lists. Natural or meadow landscaping in lieu of lawn is often restricted; many HOAs require 'lawn' character in front yards. Owners seeking to convert to native meadows face covenant enforcement risks.
Mecklenburg County partnership: The Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Department and Cooperative Extension run educational programs promoting native plantings, rain gardens, and pollinator habitat through the Living in the Green initiative.
Federal protection: The endangered Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii) occurs in Piedmont locations including parts of Mecklenburg County. Development affecting known populations requires USFWS consultation.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Charlotte code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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