At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, East Vincent Township adopted a new ordinance aimed at regulating the growth of invasive and noxious plants, including bamboo, within the township. Here’s what residents need to know:
Key Points:
- Noxious Vegetation Prohibited: The ordinance identifies certain weeds, vines, and grasses that are considered noxious or objectionable if they exceed 10 inches in height. These plants are now officially classified as public nuisances and health hazards.
- Exemptions: The ordinance does provide some exemptions, including for woodlands, ornamental gardens, and areas under specific environmental management plans. However, noxious vegetation listed under Pennsylvania law is not exempt.
- Bamboo Regulations:
- Prohibition on New Bamboo: Planting or growing bamboo is now prohibited within the township.
- Existing Bamboo: If you already have bamboo on your property, it can stay, but with strict conditions:
- Bamboo must be kept at least 40 feet away from roads, sidewalks, and township/public property, and 25 feet from your neighbors’ property lines.
- Homeowners are responsible for preventing bamboo from spreading beyond these setbacks, which may require installing barriers.
- Removal Obligations: If your bamboo spreads onto township property, you are required to remove it. If you don’t, the township may do it and bill you for the cost.
- Enforcement: Violations of the ordinance will result in fines, and the township may take action to remove offending vegetation at the property owner’s expense.
What This Means for You:
As a resident, you are responsible for ensuring that your property complies with these new regulations. If you have bamboo or other identified noxious plants, you may need to take steps to manage or remove them to avoid penalties. The ordinance is designed to protect the community and environment from invasive species, so taking action now can help avoid issues later.
Further Review:
The Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) may review and suggest modifications to the ordinance in the future, but for now, these rules are in effect.
Feel free to reach out to the township office if you have any questions or need assistance understanding how this ordinance affects your property.
Boy this is a financial bomb to drop on homeowners who have been responsible with controlling spread. It would be nice if the township provided resources for homeowners rather than just dropping an ordinance and peacing out.