[Adopted 8-11-2016 by Ord. No. 2016-04]
The purpose of this article is to protect and promote the public
health through the control of the growth of invasive plants.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
All native and non-native vines and vegetation that grow
out of place and are competitive, persistent, and pernicious shall
be classified as invasive plants. 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 article.
All places and premises in the Township of Little Egg Harbor
shall be subject to inspection by the Code Enforcement Officer or
his designee. Such inspections shall be performed by such person,
persons or agency duly authorized and appointed by the Township of
Little Egg Harbor. Such inspection shall be made if that official
has reason to believe that any section of this article is being violated.
A.
Whenever an invasive plant, as defined by this article, 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. The Township recognizes
that certain invasive plant types can be difficult to eradicate or
remove; therefore, the time for abatement will depend on the particular
species of invasive plant.
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 of such removal from the property owner and place a lien on the
property to recover the cost of invasive plant removal.
