Edison Residents May Be Fined For Planting Bamboo

EDISON, NJ – Edison Council is looking to ban residents from planting bamboo on their property.

Last week, council introduced an ordinance that looks to prohibit bamboo planting, which is considered an invasive species.

Residents who already have bamboo can continue having the plant as long as it is contained within their property, the township clarified.

According to the township planting bamboo is being prohibited because it can have a negative impact on residential and commercial properties, effecting landscape and causing damage to structures and infrastructure.

According to officials, bamboo grows rapidly, up to 35 inches per day. Removing or controlling bamboo can take years due to its root mass, rapid growth of spreading grass, and regeneration properties

The ordinance mandates that bamboo must be contained in an above-ground planter or vessel and prohibited from being placed within 10 feet of any property line or right-of-way to prevent uncontrolled growth and potential property damage.

Residents who violate the ordinance will pay a fine of $100 a day for each day the violation exists.

Councilman Ajay Patil said he supported the ordinance, but would like to learn more about the negative impacts bamboo can have.

Council president Margot Harris said she was “wholeheartedly” in favor of the ordinance.

A public hearing of the ordinance is scheduled for March 12.

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