The Lacey Township Committee recently did a first reading of an ordinance that would amend a law that requires residents to control the growth of invasive plants or face potential violations.

Township officials have previously said the ordinance is an attempt to ensure residents' plants — such as bamboo, ragwood, oak, etc. — do not grow to the point of intruding on others' property. 

The ordinance defines invasive plants as “all native and non-native vines and vegetation that grow out of place and are competitive, persistent and pernicious.”

Residents who do not control vegetation on their properties would be subject to a violation from the code enforcement officer requiring them to remove or control the plant. If the resident fails to comply, the township would take steps to trim the plant or remove it. 

The amendment included violations, which were not originally incorporated in the ordinance.

Lacey residents who violate the ordinance will receive a fine of no less than $50 and no more than $250.

A violation will be given to the owner in writing, to remove or abate the invasive plant within a given time. The recommended time is in years, due to the difficulty of removing bamboo. The cost of abatement is on the property owner.

If the property owner fails to comply with the violation, an enforcing official may remove or control the plant and the township will recover the cost.

The Committee will have to approve a second reading of the ordinance.