Knotweed and the Law

✅ What the Law Says in Ireland

Japanese Knotweed is listed under the Third Schedule of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011). Under Regulation 49(2), it is an offence to "plant, disperse, allow or cause to disperse, spread or otherwise cause to grow" this species without a licence.

The Wildlife Act 1976 (as amended) also makes it an offence to cause non‑native invasive species to grow in the wild.

Having Japanese Knotweed on your property is not illegal, but allowing it to spread to neighbouring land or public land can lead to legal liability.

Movement of soil or spoil containing Japanese Knotweed, or the disposal of contaminated material without following waste regulations, can also result in offences.

📍 What This Means for Landowners in Cork & Surrounds

If you discover Japanese Knotweed on your property, you should act promptly. If the plant spreads beyond your boundary, you could be held legally responsible.

If soil or spoil from your site contains Knotweed residue and is moved off‑site or disposed of improperly, this could be a breach of law.

For property transactions - whether buying or selling - surveyors, lenders, and conveyancers will often require a Knotweed Management Plan (KMP) or proof of control due to the legal and financial risks involved.

Using a specialist company like Japanese Knotweed Cork is strongly recommended to ensure:

• Full compliance with Irish legislation
• Proper disposal of contaminated material
• Appropriate and effective treatment strategies

🛠 How Japanese Knotweed Cork Can Help

• We survey your site and identify the full extent of the infestation, including underground rhizome spread, providing a fully documented plan that meets Irish legal and regulatory requirements.
• We handle the removal and disposal of infested material in full compliance with legislation and waste regulations, reducing your risk of legal or financial penalties.
• We offer ongoing monitoring and guarantees, so you can demonstrate to lenders, buyers, or regulatory bodies that the infestation has been responsibly managed.
• We advise on preventing spread from your site to neighbouring land, a key legal obligation under Irish law.

For any enquiries or questions, do not hesitate to contact us!

Email. corklandscaper@gmail.com

Tel. 0870018636