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Pittsburgh City Council

Bill to Allow Pollinator Gardens and Natural Landscapes Introduced.

Written by Amy Whipple

  • Bill would exempt intentional plantings of native Pennsylvania vegetation from code violations to enhance biodiversity and protect the City’s environment.
  • The exemption covers:
  • Native Gardens: A planned garden using plants that naturally grow in Pennsylvania and are suited to its climate and soil.
  • Pollinator Gardens: A garden designed to attract and support pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds by offering food, water, and shelter.
  • Rain Gardens: A shallow, landscaped area with native plants that captures and filters rainwater runoff.
  • Current City Code prohibits these landscapes and all plant and weed growth over 10 inches on residential properties.
  • Residents must register their gardens with the City before planting.
  • Violations incur a $15-per-day fine.
  • Bill will be discussed at next week’s Standing Committee meeting.

Connections to this story

Topics:
Environment & Climate
Governments:
Pittsburgh City Council
Public meetings:
City Council · April 22, 2025

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