Queens County, NY Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Weed control in Queens operates under multiple overlapping rules. NYC Admin Code 16-118 and DSNY Rules 16 RCNY 1-04 prohibit accumulation of weeds and grass over 10 inches in height on any residential lot or vacant parcel. Property owners (including banks holding foreclosed real estate) are responsible for continuous control. NY State DEC classifies invasive plants under 6 NYCRR Part 575, with species like Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, and purple loosestrife being prohibited from sale and subject to control orders. Giant hogweed, which causes severe burns and blindness, is especially regulated - DEC operates a Giant Hogweed Control Program and residents who find it must contact DEC (not attempt removal). Poison ivy and poison oak are not classified as invasive or prohibited but can trigger property-maintenance violations if creating public nuisance along pedestrian routes. Ragweed control is encouraged for allergy purposes but not legally required. In Queens, significant invasive-species issues exist in park edges of Forest Park, Alley Pond Park, and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, where NYC Parks conducts ongoing invasive removal programs. Residents whose yards border these parks should be mindful of species migration. Composting of pulled weeds is encouraged under NYC DSNY organic waste programs.