MD HB35

Authorizes Maryland counties and municipalities to adopt ordinances regulating tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and trees on the Department of Agriculture's Maryland Prohibited Invasive Plant List, including prohibiting their sale, planting, or allowing them to grow on private property

Expands existing local government authority over invasive bamboo to now include invasive trees, with enforcement options including requiring damage mitigation and establishing civil fines

Permits local governments to establish bounty programs or native tree replacement programs to incentivize removal and eradication of tree of heaven and other listed invasive trees

Requires any bounty or replacement program to verify proper species identification and removal methods consistent with University of Maryland Agriculture Extension guidelines

Effective October 1, 2026