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

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Suffolk County Local Law 41-2013 →

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Key Facts

Local Law 41 (2013): Invasive plant sales banned
Resources: LINPI and CCE Suffolk
Subdivisions: Native plant percentages required
Meadow Lawns: Allowed with management plan

City-specific rules exist: Babylon, Huntington, and Islip have their own native plants rules that differ from Suffolk County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Suffolk County actively promotes native Long Island plant species to protect the sole-source aquifer and Pine Barrens ecosystem. The Long Island Native Plant Initiative and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County provide plant lists. Towns increasingly require native plantings in subdivision landscape plans.

Full Breakdown

Suffolk County Local Law 41 of 2013 prohibits the sale of certain invasive species countywide, one of the first such bans in the US. The Suffolk County Parks Department uses native-only planting in new installations. Town subdivision codes (e.g., Southampton 330-81.4) require a percentage of native plants in new landscape plans. Homeowners face no restrictions on replacing turf with native meadow provided property maintenance codes are met with a formal management plan.

Violations & Fines

Sale of listed invasive species: up to $1,000 per plant under Local Law 41. Subdivision planting violations: certificate of occupancy withheld until compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to replace my lawn with native meadow?

Yes, but file a management plan with your town to avoid weed-ordinance notices on tall vegetation.

Who enforces this in Suffolk County?

Suffolk County code enforcement at (631) 853-4000 handles complaints.

How does Suffolk County compare?

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

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

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