Fayetteville, NC Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Native tree share
- 50 percent of new trees
- Code section
- UDO 30-5.B.3.e.2.g
- Applies to
- Development plantings, not home gardens
- Approved species
- City list; NC Extension list as fallback
- Species variety
- Up to four species for 31+ plants
Summary
Fayetteville's UDO requires that at least 50 percent of all new trees planted under the landscaping standards be native species, and encourages native drought-tolerant vegetation to cut irrigation demand. The mandate binds development plantings, not private homeowner gardens.
The use of native, drought tolerant vegetation is encouraged to reduce dependency upon irrigation. Fifty percent of all new trees planted shall be native.
Full Breakdown
Section 30-5.B.3.e.2.g states the native-tree requirement directly. The City maintains a list of plant material hardy to the Fayetteville area, plus a Public Works Commission list for planting beneath power lines. Where the City has no list in force, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service list governs. Plant material must conform to the American Standard for Nursery Stock, ANSI Z60.1, and be specimen quality or better. Section 30-5.B.3.e.2.h sets species-variety minimums: one species for 1 to 10 trees or shrubs, rising to four species at 31 or more. Preserved vegetation must be kept free of invasive species. Compliance is checked at site plan, subdivision plan, clear-cutting permit, and building permit review.
Violations & Fines
Failure to meet the landscaping standards violates the UDO. Article 30-8 requires replacement of destroyed or disturbed required vegetation within 60 days with plantings meeting Article 30-5 standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to plant native species in my own yard?
Where do I find Fayetteville's approved plant list?
Are drought-tolerant plants required?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fayetteville
Compare Fayetteville to another location·View the North Carolina landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.