New Jersey homeowners take pride in their outdoor spaces, but recent environmental concerns are prompting local officials to reconsider what belongs in our yards.
From water conservation issues to invasive species threats, municipalities across the Garden State are drafting new regulations that could transform suburban landscapes.
Having lived in Montclair for years, I’ve watched neighborhood guidelines evolve as climate change and ecological awareness reshape our relationship with outdoor spaces.
1. Artificial Turf Lawns
Concerns about microplastic pollution have municipalities reconsidering artificial turf. These synthetic surfaces shed tiny plastic particles that wash into storm drains and eventually reach waterways.
Several towns in Bergen County have already proposed restrictions, citing environmental hazards and heat island effects. Summer temperatures on these surfaces can reach 150°F!
Natural alternatives like clover lawns or native grass blends are gaining popularity in Monmouth County neighborhoods, offering both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits without the plastic waste.
2. Bradford Pear Trees
Once a popular ornamental choice, Bradford pears are falling from favor due to their invasive nature. Their offspring revert to thorny wild forms that crowd out native species in New Jersey woodlands.
Morris County has already implemented a voluntary removal program, offering native tree replacements to homeowners. The fragrant spring blossoms aren’t worth the environmental cost.
My neighbor in Ridgewood recently replaced his Bradford with an American redbud, which supports local pollinators while providing similar spring beauty without the ecological damage.
3. Oversized Irrigation Systems
Water conservation efforts are targeting inefficient sprinkler systems that waste thousands of gallons annually. During last summer’s drought, many towns in Middlesex County implemented strict watering restrictions.
Smart irrigation controllers and rain sensors may become mandatory in new installations. These technologies can reduce water usage by up to 50% while maintaining healthy landscapes.
Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing evaporation. I switched to this method in my Cherry Hill garden last year and noticed both lower water bills and healthier plants.
4. English Ivy Ground Cover
The climbing habit of English ivy damages tree bark and building facades while providing minimal ecological benefits. When it escapes yard boundaries, it can smother native woodland plants in New Jersey forests.
Princeton’s shade tree commission has begun educational campaigns about ivy’s harmful effects. The evergreen appearance that homeowners prize comes at a significant ecological cost.
Native alternatives like wild ginger or woodland phlox offer similar ground-covering benefits without the invasive tendencies. These plants support local insects and birds while staying where they’re planted.
5. Chemical Fertilizer Applications
Runoff from chemical fertilizers contributes to harmful algal blooms in New Jersey’s lakes and rivers. Last summer’s closures at Lake Hopatcong highlighted the urgent need for change in yard care practices.
Several towns bordering waterways have introduced ordinances limiting nitrogen and phosphorus applications. The bright green lawns these products create often come at the expense of water quality.
Organic alternatives like compost tea and slow-release organic fertilizers build soil health while reducing runoff. My lawn in Toms River has thrived since switching to these methods three years ago.
6. Japanese Barberry Hedges
Research has linked dense Japanese barberry plantings to increased tick populations and Lyme disease risk. The thorny shrubs create ideal microhabitats for mice that carry ticks.
Health departments in Hunterdon County have begun recommending removal of these common hedge plants. Despite their deer-resistant qualities, the public health concerns outweigh the benefits.
Native alternatives like inkberry holly or bayberry provide similar screening without harboring ticks. Walking through my sister’s neighborhood in Summit, I’ve noticed several properties transitioning to these safer options.
7. Large Gravel Landscaping
Stone mulch and extensive gravel beds contribute to stormwater management problems in many New Jersey communities. During heavy rains, water runs off these surfaces instead of being absorbed, increasing flood risks.
Municipal engineers in flood-prone areas like Hoboken are drafting permeable surface requirements. Homeowners may soon need to limit non-porous hardscaping to a percentage of their yard area.
Rain gardens with native plants can manage stormwater while adding beauty. After replacing my driveway’s gravel border with a small rain garden, I’ve noticed significantly less water pooling during storms.
8. Bamboo Plantings
Running bamboo varieties can spread aggressively, crossing property lines and causing neighbor disputes. The underground rhizomes can extend 15 feet annually, making containment nearly impossible without specialized barriers.
Towns like Brick Township have already banned new bamboo plantings entirely. Existing stands must be contained with underground barriers at the owner’s expense.
Native grasses like switchgrass or river oats provide similar vertical interest without the invasive tendencies. The rustling sound of these alternatives in my Westfield garden offers the same peaceful ambiance as bamboo.
9. Non-Native Butterfly Bush
Despite its misleading name, butterfly bush offers limited ecological value while escaping into natural areas. The prolific seeds spread easily, establishing in disturbed areas throughout New Jersey.
Conservation groups have successfully lobbied several municipalities to add it to prohibited plant lists. Even the sterile varieties marketed as “non-invasive” provide minimal support for butterfly larvae.
Native alternatives like Joe-Pye weed or New Jersey tea support the entire butterfly lifecycle. The monarch caterpillars devouring milkweed in my Metuchen garden demonstrate the importance of complete habitat support.
10. Outdoor Fire Pits
Air quality concerns have prompted scrutiny of backyard fire features, especially in densely populated areas. Smoke from wood-burning pits can trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions in neighboring homes.
Towns like Maplewood have introduced permits and setback requirements for fire pits. Some neighborhoods are considering seasonal restrictions during summer air quality alert days.
Gas-powered alternatives produce heat without smoke or particulate matter. After switching to a propane model in my Livingston backyard, I still enjoy evening fires without complaints from my neighbor with COPD.
11. In-Ground Swimming Pools
Water conservation concerns and chemical runoff have made traditional pools increasingly controversial. A single pool can require 15,000-30,000 gallons to fill, straining water supplies during summer droughts.
Zoning boards in Essex County have begun limiting new pool installations in certain neighborhoods. The energy required for filtration and heating also contributes to climate concerns.
Natural swimming ponds use plants instead of chemicals for filtration. My friend’s natural pool in Princeton has become a neighborhood showcase for sustainable water features that support wildlife while providing recreation.
12. Bright Outdoor Lighting
Light pollution disrupts wildlife patterns and can interfere with neighbors’ sleep and enjoyment of night skies. Moths, bats, and migrating birds are particularly affected by excessive yard lighting.
Several communities in Somerset County have adopted dark sky ordinances limiting fixture brightness and requiring downward-facing shields. Motion sensors and timers are becoming mandatory features.
Low-voltage pathway lighting provides safety without excessive glare. The subtle amber lights I installed along my walkway in Morristown illuminate the path while preserving the night environment for fireflies and other nocturnal creatures.