Charlotte council codifies pollinator/naturalistic landscaping exemptions after public support

Council voted to adopt amendments to Chapter 10 (health and sanitation) that formalize exemptions for pollinator habitat and naturalistic landscapes in the overgrown‑vegetation ordinance.

Two members of the public urged adoption. Alden Picard, speaking for the Charlotte Coalition to Protect Urban Nature, said the amendment “is a common sense approach to conservation” that will let homeowners choose stewardship practices that support native pollinators. Dr. Terrell Mackey, who said he has 25 years in mental‑health work, told council green space improves a range of health outcomes and reduces stress.

Council members said the ordinance change reflects sustained community organizing and asked staff about outreach to homeowners associations. Staff replied that pollinator gardens already had an administrative registration pathway and that codifying the exemption creates an opportunity for a robust education and marketing campaign; staff also said the amendment does not supersede private restrictive covenants.

The ordinance was adopted on the council floor; staff said they would roll out education materials, registration guidance and sample social media assets to help residents and HOAs understand the change.

Ending: Council adopted the amendment and staff committed to a structured outreach and education program to accompany the codification.