Where Spotted Lanternfly Is Established in the U.S.
Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive planthopper native to parts of Asia and a regulated pest in several U.S. states as of 2025. This overview summarizes where the pest has been confirmed, which states have active quarantines, and what residents, growers, and transporters should know. Early detection and movement controls are important to slow spread and protect agriculture and trees.
Confirmed U.S. Populations as of 2025
Confirmed populations are concentrated in the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Northeast, with scattered findings in adjacent states. States with established, reproducing populations typically have counties under quarantine. Localities may update quarantines as new detections occur. The following table provides a simplified, evergreen snapshot of status by state; check each state’s regulatory site for current county-level details.
| State | Status Overview | Key Affected Regions or Counties | Primary Quarantine Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | Established and widespread | Southeastern counties including Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, Chester | Movement of plants, outdoor items, and vehicles |
| New Jersey | Established and widespread | Central and northern counties such as Mercer, Middlesex, Bergen | Transportation of host materials and outdoor goods |
| New York | Established and expanding | Foci in lower Hudson Valley, Long Island, and surrounding counties | Regulated articles and quarantine compliance |
| Ohio | Established in multiple counties | Northeastern counties including Mahoning, Trumbull, Summit | Movement of nursery stock, wood, and vehicles |
| Indiana | Localized established populations | Several southern counties near transportation corridors | Regulated articles and transport restrictions |
| Maryland | Established in limited areas | Western counties and parts of the state with tree-of-heaven | Outdoor items and haulers compliance |
| Virginia | Established but limited in some regions | Northern counties near major roadways and trade routes | Movement of host materials and quarantine adherence |
| Massachusetts | Detection, not yet fully established | Worcester and surrounding counties with detections | Eradication efforts and movement checks |
| West Virginia | Detection and treatment underway | Kanawha, Putnam, and neighboring counties | Cooperative survey and treatment activities |
| Connecticut | Detection, limited spread | Fairfield County and nearby areas | Surveillance and containment measures |
| Delaware | Detection or treatment in some areasNew Castle County and surroundings | Movement of regulated articles | |
| Potentially regulated or detected | Rare, isolated detections | Varies by year | Local responses and verification |
Understanding Quarantines and Regulations
Because spotted lanternfly feeds on and can weaken important trees and crops, many states enforce quarantines that restrict the movement of potential host materials. Typical regulated items include firewood, outdoor wood products, nursery stock, trucks or equipment with outdoor cargo, and vehicles. Requirements often include inspections, permits, and visible compliance materials such as stickers. Businesses and transporters operating between quarantined counties or states should verify current rules with each jurisdiction’s department of agriculture.
Host Trees and High-Risk Areas
The pest shows a strong association with tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), but it also feeds on grapes, hops, fruit trees, and many hardwoods. Infestations tend to build first near transportation corridors, parking areas, and yards where host trees are present. Overwinters in egg masses that can be moved on outdoor items, making thorough inspections and cleaning critical during moving seasons. Public awareness of lookalike insects can reduce unnecessary reports while ensuring genuine finds are addressed quickly.
Identification and Reporting Guidance
Adult spotted lanternfly are most distinctive in the later summer and fall, with black forewings marked by gray spots and bright red hind wings. Nymphs progress through several instars, from black with white spots to red-and-black patterns. Egg masses may appear as thin, mud-like deposits with obvious contrasting edges. Accurate identification supports effective management and reduces misdiagnosis. When in doubt, submit photos to your state’s department of agriculture or university extension for verification.
What Residents and Businesses Should Do
- Check state agriculture websites for county-level quarantine status before moving outdoor items.
- Inspect and clean vehicles, equipment, and outdoor furniture before travel, especially in late summer and fall.
- Report suspected sightings with dates, location, and photographs to the relevant state department of agriculture.
- Support local initiatives by removing tree-of-heaven seedlings when feasible and choosing non-host plants in landscaped areas.
Looking Ahead
Spotted lanternfly management will remain a long-term issue for many states as populations continue to expand or are detected in new regions. Ongoing research focuses on effective control methods, host plant behavior, and outreach tools for the public and industry. Staying informed through official channels, following quarantine rules, and participating in local monitoring efforts contribute to more coordinated, evidence-based responses over time.