Second PA city approves ban on fast-growing bamboo

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (AP) - A second Pennsylvania city has approved restrictions on a fast-growing bamboo.

The Morning Call reports (https://bit.ly/2fl4cwd ) the Allentown City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to ban running bamboo within 20 feet of a property line, utility easement or right of way.

Residents are also banned from planting bamboo without a barrier around the plants.

Those who fail to contain their bamboo could face a $100 fine.

While some residents enjoy the plant for the privacy it creates, the city says the invasive species can split foundations and destroy water lines.

The law now awaits a signature from Democratic Mayor Ed Pawlowski.

Bethlehem officials approved a bamboo ban in April. Officials in Nazareth are expected to pass a similar ban in October.