West Windsor, New Jersey Development News

West Windsor Council Debates Comprehensive Bamboo Ordinance, Focusing on Enforcement and Scope

The West Windsor Township Council engaged in a detailed discussion regarding a proposed ordinance to regulate bamboo. The discussion focused on two main points: whether to ban all bamboo or only invasive species, and the method of enforcement, specifically whether to utilize a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) process. While the Shade Tree Commission advocated for banning all bamboo and using the CO process, the Mayor expressed concerns about the feasibility and lack of an existing mechanism for CO enforcement related to bamboo, suggesting existing nuisance laws and fines might be sufficient. Council members leaned towards banning all bamboo and exploring alternative enforcement or remediation strategies, while also refining specific aspects like setback distances and property owner responsibilities for removal and disposal, including encroachments on neighboring properties and the need for a clear permitting and inspection process. The discussion also touched upon the complexities of existing bamboo remediation versus prevention of new plantings, and the potential costs and timelines associated with various approaches. The ordinance is not yet finalized and will undergo further review and introduction at a future meeting.