Suffolk County towns classify tall weeds and noxious vegetation on private property as public nuisances under their property maintenance codes. Listed noxious weeds under NY Ag and Markets Law Article 14 (e.g., ragweed, poison ivy adjacent to public ways, giant hogweed) must be controlled.
Ag and Markets Law 164 authorizes municipalities to order removal of noxious weeds. Suffolk towns incorporate this authority into their property maintenance codes. Giant hogweed, an invasive species with severe health risks, is tracked by NYSDEC and must be reported. Sumac, ragweed, and poison ivy near sidewalks are common complaint targets. The county Cornell Cooperative Extension assists with invasive species identification.
Notice to abate weeds: 10-14 day cure period. Failure to cure: town abates, bills owner $150-$500 plus lien. Failure to control giant hogweed: DEC enforcement and possible state cleanup.
Suffolk County, NY
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See how Suffolk County's weed ordinances rules stack up against other locations.
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