Hedgerows are vital features that provide wildlife habitat, act as corridors for species to move across landscapes, slow soil erosion and water run-off, support crop pollinators, sequester carbon, and enrich the character of our landscapes.
For these reasons, hedgerows are protected by Hedgerow Management Rules. Anyone managing land with hedgerows must comply with these rules.
1. The Basics
What counts as a hedgerow?
A hedgerow is a line of bushes which may also include trees. Trees growing within a hedgerow are treated as part of it. Hedgerows on top of traditional banks are also covered.When are hedgerows protected?
The cutting and trimming rules apply where a hedgerow:Is more than 20 m long with gaps of 20 m or less, or
Is less than 20 m long but meets another hedgerow at both ends.
Where do the rules apply?
On land used for agriculture, including:
horticulture, fruit or seed growing, dairy farming, livestock keeping (including horses), grazing land, meadows, market gardens, nurseries, allotments, and woodland where agricultural activities take place.
They also apply to hedgerows on farmland boundaries adjoining non-agricultural land, such as golf courses or village halls.
2. Cutting and Trimming Rules
Closed season:
You must not cut or trim hedgerows between 1 March and 31 August. This protects nesting birds and other wildlife.
You must not allow anyone else to cut during this time.Open season:
Cutting and trimming is allowed from 1 September to the end of February, subject to other conditions below.
3. Exemptions (When Cutting/Trimming is Allowed in Closed Season)
Cutting or trimming can take place between March and August in the following situations:
Safety and access:
Where hedgerows obstruct roads, footpaths, or public rights of way.
Where they block street lighting or road users’ visibility.
Where a dead, damaged, or insecurely rooted hedgerow poses danger.
Traditional management:
Hedge-laying or coppicing between 1 March and 30 April.
Hand trimming of a newly laid hedge within 6 months of laying.
Private gardens:
Hedgerows within or marking the boundary of a dwelling’s curtilage.
Health risks:
To prevent serious harm to plant health, or risks to human or animal safety.
Weed or pest control:
To tackle serious infestations.
Statutory bodies:
Work required by a utility or statutory authority acting under its powers.
4. Special Exemptions (Oilseed Rape and Temporary Grass)
You may apply to cut or trim in August to sow oilseed rape or temporary grass.
You must notify the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) in advance and keep records.
Cutting is restricted to:
The in-field side of the hedgerow (and the top if necessary).
Only the length adjoining the land parcel where the crop will be sown.
You must check first for birds, nests, and eggs. If found, cutting is prohibited under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
5. Written Permission (Derogations)
If you need to cut between March and August for reasons not covered by the exemptions, you must apply to the RPA for written permission (a “derogation”). This may be granted if:
It enhances the environment.
It is necessary for livestock or crop production.
It improves public or agricultural access.
Applications must include land parcel numbers, evidence (such as photographs), and a clear explanation of the works.
6. Record-Keeping
You must keep detailed records of all work carried out under exemptions or derogations.
During RPA inspections, you must be able to prove why the work was necessary and under which rule you acted.
Summary
Hedgerows are protected for their vital ecological role. Cutting and trimming is generally prohibited from 1 March to 31 August. Exemptions apply for safety, traditional management, health risks, and specific agricultural needs, but you must keep full records. Written permission is required for other works.
Failure to comply may result in penalties, enforcement action, or the loss of agricultural payments.