[Adopted 2-19-2015 by Ord. No. 943]
The purpose of this article is to protect and promote the public health through the control of the growth of invasive plants, including but not limited to bamboo.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
ENFORCING OFFICER
The Borough Code Enforcement Officer or his/her designee.
INVASIVE PLANTS
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 and kudzu vine.
All persons must control the growth of invasive plants. Failure to control the spread of such vegetation beyond the border of a resident's property is a violation of this chapter.
All places and premises in the Borough of Oceanport 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 Borough of Oceanport. Such inspection shall be made if that official has reason to believe that any section of this article is being violated.
Whenever an invasive plant as defined by this chapter is found on any plot of land, lot or any other premises or place, and is found to lack appropriate physical barriers to prevent the spread or growth of the species, or is found to have spread beyond the boundaries of a property, a violation shall be given to the owner of the property from which the invasive species has spread, in writing, to remove or abate the same within 30 days. In the event more time is needed for treatment and/or removal, approval by the enforcing officer, or his/her designee, is required. The cost of abatement shall be borne by the property owner.