Summer hedge cutting rule that risks an ‘unlimited fine’ is finally lifted in UK

BRITS can finally get their hedge trimmers out without falling foul of a seasonal restriction. The rule that risks an “unlimited fine” has now been lifted in the UK. British homeowners can finally get their hedge trimmers out Credit: Getty Farmers and landowners are now able to carry out routine hedge cutting after the long-standing rule was lifted today. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, cutting or trimming certain agricultural hedgerows is prohibited between March 1 and August 31 to protect nesting birds. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The restrictions generally apply to hedgerows on agricultural land, rather than the average hedge in a domestic garden. However, gardeners and homeowners still need to be careful because deliberately damaging or destroying a wild bird’s nest is an offence. Under Section 1 of the Act, it is illegal to intentionally damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it is being built or is in use. The Crown Prosecution Service says a person convicted of certain offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act can face up to six months in prison, a level-five fine, or both. A level-five fine is an unlimited fine, meaning there is no fixed maximum amount a court can impose. However, this does not mean that anyone who cuts an ordinary garden hedge during summer will automatically receive a fine. Most read in The Sun The key issue is whether an offence under wildlife protection legislation has actually been committed, especially where an active wild bird’s nest is deliberately damaged or destroyed. Luke Dejahang, gardening expert and CEO of Crown Pavilions, told The Sun: “This could potentially affect the average homeowner, especially if they are unaware of the regulations and unintentionally breach them.” The nesting season typically runs from March to August, with the peak period between March and July. Comment now