1997 Hedgerow regulations

The 1997 Hedgerow Regulations came into force on 1 June 1997 and require that the Council is notified of the intention to remove an agricultural hedgerow.

After receipt of the notification the Council has six weeks to survey the hedge and determine whether or not it is an important hedge as determined by the criteria laid down in the legislation. If the hedgerow is recognised as an important hedgerow the Council can place a hedgerow retention notice on it.

This will prevent the removal of the hedgerow, and ensure its retention. Removal of an agricultural hedgerow without the consent of the Council or in defiance of a Hedgerow retention notice is a criminal offence.

The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 can be found in full at:

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si1997/19971160.htm

You may download the hedgerow removal application form which should be filled in and sent back to the Local Plans and Conservation Section. National guidance to filling in the form, and a local validation checklist are also available.

A printed copy of this form along with more information about removal of agricultural hedges can be requested, free of charge, from the Customer Contact Centre or the Local Plans and Conservation Section of Planning and Housing Services. Tel: 01228 817193.