Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

How do I report overgrown hedges or trees on a highway?

Answer:

Trees and hedges are the responsibility of the owner of the land they are situated on and the owner has a statutory obligation to keep them from encroaching on the highway.

However, if the encroachment is causing an obstruction to pedestrians and road users please report this to us on 01432 261800 or email streets@herefordshire.gov.uk Please provide the location of the overgrown hedge or tree - street name, road number and any landmarks.

We may serve a hedge cutting notice which states that the trees/hedges need to be cut back within 28 days. If the landowner fails to do this, the notice may be enforceable in court, but it is very rare for this to happen.

If an inspector believes the overhang is causing a serious problem they may have the works carried out and then bill the landowner. This would only happen in rare circumstances when all other attempts have failed.