Trees, hedges and grass cutting

Can I report an issue with a tree or hedge?

Yes, but if the tree, shrub or hedge are on private land and are causing an issue to the highway or a footway we may require the owner or occupier of the land to lop or cut it so as to remove the cause of danger, obstruction or interference. 

Please note: we will not remove healthy trees or hedges unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as there is proof that the tree is causing subsidence damage.

Can you help with the maintenance of my garden?

We may be able to help you look after your garden if you meet certain conditions:

How often do you cut grass?

On urban roadside grass verges and public areas such as play areas, cemeteries, and public open spaces, we will cut the grass regularly to maintain a good standard, between April and September each year.

On rural roadside grass verges and in areas such as tree belts and woodland areas, we will cut the grass three times between April and September each year. If the verges are outside a village boundary we will cut it twice between April and August.

How can I report grass that needs cutting?

Do you collect the grass or hedge clippings?

Grass clippings

Unfortunately grass clippings can’t be removed every time the grass is cut, as the volume is equivalent to clippings from 1,200 football stadiums.

Collecting grass clippings would more than double the cost of the service partly due to a government imposed landfill taxation, as grass clippings on their own can’t be composted.

However, we supply our staff with blowers to keep the footpaths clear of mown grass in key areas such as footpaths in and around retirement homes and sheltered accommodation.

Hedge clippings

If we cut hedges in urban areas we usually collect and remove the clippings. 

Clippings from rural hedges are not normally collected as they are usually contained within the highway verge. If they spill over onto the road and are causing a potential danger to road users please let us know and we will clear them:

Report hedge clippings that need clearing

How can I report damaged grass and verges?

Report damaged grass or a damaged verge