Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Monroe County, NY Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Few Restrictions

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Key Facts

DEC Guidance: Native plant list
Stormwater Benefit: MS4 encouraged
HOA Preemption: None in NY
Invasives: 6 NYCRR Part 575

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Monroe County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Monroe County municipalities encourage native plantings for stormwater and pollinator habitat. NY DEC Native Plant list guides species selection. NY General Obligations Law §5-321-a does not preempt HOA aesthetic rules but reasonable native gardens typically allowed.

Full Breakdown

NY DEC and Cornell Cooperative Extension (Monroe County office in Brighton) promote native plant landscaping for pollinator and stormwater benefits. Rochester, Brighton, and Pittsford have adopted stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) under NY SPDES MS4 permit that encourage native plantings. Rochester's Climate Action Plan targets native/pollinator species for municipal properties. NY has no statewide HOA preemption for native gardens (unlike California or Florida), so HOA aesthetic rules in Monroe County subdivisions may restrict unconventional landscaping — residents should review CC&Rs. Invasive species listed under 6 NYCRR Part 575 (Japanese knotweed, purple loosestrife, autumn olive) are regulated. Monroe County Stormwater Coalition offers rain garden/native plant rebates.

Violations & Fines

Most natural landscapes compliant with weed ordinances exempt. HOA fines for non-compliance with aesthetic CC&Rs: enforceable in NY. Invasive species dumping/sale: DEC enforcement under Part 575.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces native plants rules in Monroe County?

Monroe County's code enforcement division is responsible for landscaping ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Monroe County government website or by calling the main municipal line.

What are typical penalties for violating native plants rules?

Most Monroe County landscaping violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Monroe County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

How does Monroe County compare?

See how Monroe County's native plants rules stack up against other locations.

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Monroe County, NY Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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