Flemington Has A Bamboo Law. Here's What It Means For Your Property

FLEMINGTON, NJ - The borough has a bamboo ordinance on the books.

Council adopted Ordinance 2026-10 on April 27, adding bamboo regulations to the borough's municipal code. The law bans residents, property owners, and tenants from planting, cultivating, or growing bamboo anywhere within borough limits — with a narrow exception for plants contained entirely in above-ground planters, barrels, or similar vessels that fully prevent root spread.

Even containerized bamboo faces restrictions: plants must be kept at least 15 feet from any property line and are prohibited entirely in front yards.

Residents who had bamboo on their property before the ordinance took effect are exempt — but only as long as the plant stays on their own land. If bamboo is found to have spread roots, branches, stalks, or leaves onto a neighboring property or public right-of-way, the exemption no longer applies. The borough can act on its own observations or in response to a complaint from a nearby property owner.

Violations trigger a written notice sent by certified mail giving the property owner 20 days to correct the problem. Fines are outlined in the borough's existing municipal code.

The ordinance was introduced April 13 and adopted after a public hearing April 27. Copies are available at the Borough Clerk's office, 38 Park Ave.

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