Hedges and the hedgegrows regulations
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The regulations
Hedgerows form an important feature in the landscape and provide habitats for many species of wildlife. They are identified as a Priority Habitat for nature conservation in Wales and are often also of archaeological and historical value. For this reason, most countryside hedges are protected by law under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997.
The Hedgerows Regulations require owners of rural hedgerows to give their Local Planning Authority 42 days written notice of their intention to remove all or part of any hedgerow. The notice should include a plan identifying the hedgerow as well as the reasons for removal. There are exemptions, including hedges that form the boundary or curtilage of a dwelling. Hedgerows removed as part of an approved development also fall outside of the Regulations.
Local Planning Authorities must then assess whether the hedgerow is important based upon criteria relating to archaeological, historical, wildlife or landscape value as well as consideration of the reasons for removal. There is a presumption in favour of retaining important hedgerows unless there are exceptional reasons to justify removal.
Anyone failing to give this notice and removing hedgerows may be guilty of an offence. You may be required to replant any hedgerow removed without prior notice.
Guide to Hedgerows Regulations
If you have a query about High Hedges, you will need to contact your local council.
Hedgerows regulations
