Some invasive plants are regulated by state, federal, or local law. The primary invasive plant laws affecting forestry in Florida are identified below.
The United States Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services administers the Federal Noxious Weed Act (USDA, 7CR-360). Plants listed under this rule are prohibited from importation and interstate transport without a permit. Visit the USDA Plant Health website [ Adobe PDF Document ].
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services administers FDACS, F.A.C. Chapter 5B-57 which prohibits listed plants from cultivation, introduction, collection, and transport without a permit. This is the primary invasive plant law of concern to forest managers in Florida. In particular, the listings of Japanese climbing fern, and cogon grass have impact on movement and sale of some forest products. Visit FDACS's Plant Industry web page for Noxious Weeds.
Aquatic Plant Importation, Transportation, Non-nursery Cultivation, Possession and Collection
Many Florida counties and municipalities have local ordinances addressing specific non-native invasive plant species. Check with your local zoning department or planning office for more information.
Invasive Plants of the Thirteen Southern States: This is a table of plants listed as invasive in any of the 13 Southern States. Visit the Invasive Plants of the Thirteen Southern States webpage.