[HISTORY: Adopted by the Township Committee of the Township
of Lacey 10-25-2012 by Ord. No. 2012-27. Amendments noted where applicable.]
The purpose of this chapter is to protect and promote the public
health through the control of the growth of invasive plant species.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
The Township Code Enforcement Officer or his designee.
All native and nonnative vines and vegetation that grow out
of place and are competitive, persistent, and pernicious. These plants
may damage trees, vegetation, or structures. Examples include but
are not limited to bamboo (spreading or running type), ragweed, multiflora
rose, kudzu vine and poison ivy or oak.
All persons must control the growth of invasive plants. Failure
to control the spread of such vegetation beyond the boundaries of
a resident's property is a violation of this chapter.
All places and premises in the Township of Lacey shall be subject
to inspection by the enforcing officer. Such inspections shall be
performed by such person, persons or agency duly authorized and appointed
by the Township of Lacey. Such inspection shall be made if that official
has reason to believe that any section of this chapter is being violated.
A.
Whenever an invasive plant as defined by this chapter is found on
any plot of land, lot or any other premises or place, a violation
shall be given to the owner, in writing, to remove or abate the same
within such time as shall be specified therein (recommend time in
years, due to difficulty of removing bamboo). Any person violating
any provisions of this chapter shall be punished by a fine of not
less than $50 nor more than $250.
[Amended 3-28-2013 by Ord. No. 2013-06]
B.
The cost of abatement shall be borne by the property owner.
C.
If the owner fails to comply with such notice within the time specified
therein, the enforcing official may remove or otherwise control the
invasive plant species, and the Township may thereafter recover the
cost.
