In addition to the plant species listed in the Third Schedule (Part 1) of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011), the National Biodiversity Data Centre maintains a national list of non-native (alien) invasive species recorded in Ireland.

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Through a structured ecological risk assessment process, non-native species are classified according to the level of threat they pose to biodiversity, habitats and the wider environment. These categories include:

• High Risk / High Impact Invasive Species

• Medium Risk / Medium Impact Invasive Species

• Watch List Species, which are not yet widely established in Ireland but may pose a future risk.

 

You can learn more about the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s invasive species assessment process by visiting their website.

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The management of invasive alien species across Europe is coordinated under Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species, which establishes measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species, enable early detection and control species that threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services.

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Japanese Knotweed Killers has undertaken extensive research and compiled detailed guidance on non-native plant species that have been introduced accidentally or deliberately into the wild in Ireland where they are not naturally found.

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Non-native invasive plants often out-compete native vegetation for light, nutrients, water and space, which can lead to significant environmental impacts and loss of biodiversity.

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Alien invasive species may also have serious consequences for conservation and economic interests, affecting agriculture, forestry, infrastructure and protected habitats. In some cases, invasive species may also present direct or indirect risks to human health and safety.

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As a result, managing invasive species has become a major land management challenge for both public authorities and private landowners. Effective control and remediation programmes can be complex, costly and labour-intensive, often requiring specialist expertise and long-term monitoring.

 

Is Having an Invasive Species on My Property Illegal?

In most cases, simply having an invasive plant species present on your property is not automatically illegal.

However, under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, it is an offence to plant, disperse or otherwise cause the spread of listed invasive species into the wild.

 

This means that while a landowner may not have introduced the plant, allowing it to spread beyond the boundaries of the property may create legal liability.

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If an invasive plant spreads from your land onto neighbouring property or onto public land, you may potentially be responsible for:

• Costs associated with remediation or treatment

• Legal costs or civil claims for damages

• Costs incurred by local authorities or neighbouring landowners to control the spread

 

For this reason, early identification and professional management of invasive plant species is strongly recommendedto protect both the environment and property interests.