Overhanging hedges, trees, shrubs or bushes
This guidance explains your responsibilities for vegetation that overhangs the highway and how Bradford Council enforces the law.
What is overhanging vegetation?
Plants growing from your property onto a public highway, including footways, footpaths, snickets, roads and verges. Examples of obstruction:
- pedestrians forced into the road
- pushchairs or wheelchairs unable to pass
- blocking sight lines for drivers
- obstructing street furniture (lamps, signs)
Overhanging vegetation is a safety hazard. The Council can require you to cut it back.
What is a public highway?
Includes:
- footways, verges, carriageways, public rights of way
- adopted or unadoped land
Excludes:
- private land and parkland.
Ownership disputes are resolved using Highway Records or Land Registry.
Legal powers
Enforced under Highways Act 1980, Section 154 – cutting or felling trees that overhang or endanger roads or footpaths.
How to report
Call 01274 431000 to report overhanging vegetation.
Enforcement process
- Council officer inspects and takes photos
- Landowner receives a Notice to cut back within 14 days
- If no action is taken:
- Council arranges work
- Costs are charged to the landowner:
- Contractor costs (depends on size, type, equipment)
- £75 administration fee
- £62 permit fee (if required)
Important: Council staff or contractors will never ask for direct payment. Report any such request immediately.
How far to cut back
- Lower branches:2.5m (8ft) above footway or carriageway
- Cut back to your boundary line
- Clear 1m (3ft) around street furniture and 2m (6ft) above it
Appearance after cutting back is not an excuse .
If nesting birds or tree preservation orders apply, check:
Who enforces?
Bradford Council's Network Resilience and Management Team (Planning, Transportation and Highways Service).
Enforcement only applies where vegetation obstructs the highway or street furniture. For private disputes, see trees and your property guidance.
Further information
If you believe you have been contacted incorrectly, email HE@bradford.gov.uk with supporting documents.
Occasionally, reminder letters may be sent to multiple properties. These do not prevent enforcement action.