As temperatures continue to rise across the UK, people with green thumbs have been urged to avoid “common” gardening mistakes – as they could face a staggering £5,000 fine.
With temperatures expected to hit 31C this week, many green-fingered people will be making the most of their outdoor spaces, but some may find themselves accidentally breaking the laws.
From growing Japanese Knotweed to installing tall hedges, it’s important to be aware of potential landscaping breaches as they could cost you a whopping £5,000. Anna McEntee, of Compare the Market, has urged homeowners to check regulations before carrying out work or contact their local planning authority.
To help residents stay on the right side of the law and avoid major fines this summer, Anna has revealed the most “common” garden-related violations and their potential penalties.
Growing Japanese Knotweed
Good: Up to £5,000 and a possible prison sentence of up to two years
Regulation: The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Japanese Knotweed is a fast-growing invasive plant that is notoriously difficult to eradicate compared to other species. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is an offense to plant Japanese Knotweed or allow it to grow in the wild. While it is not illegal to have the plant on private property, residents can face fines of up to £5,000 if they allow it to spread in natural areas.
According to Natural Resources Wales, this may include “cutting, shaking or throwing away” contaminated material, which could be a criminal offence. If any transfer of waste leads to the spread of Japanese Knotweed in the wild, UK residents could face a prison sentence of up to two years.
High hedges and fences
Good: £1,000
Regulation: Anti-Social Behavior Act 2003
Homeowners often prefer tall fences and hedges because they improve privacy, but excessively tall barriers have the potential to annoy neighbors and lead to fines.
As outlined in the Anti-Social Behavior Act 2003, if a neighbor complains about the height of a fence or hedge, the local authority will investigate to see if it significantly affects the neighbour’s enjoyment of their property. If so, the authority may issue a notice requiring the owner to reduce the height. Failure to comply can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Nose discomfort
Good: £1,000
Regulation: The Environmental Protection Act 1990
While there is nothing better than spending time outdoors in warm conditions, residents should be aware of their noise levels to avoid breaking the rules. Under the Environmental Protection Act, noise is stated to be a “statutory nuisance” if it “unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of a house or other premises.”
If a complaint is made, the council can issue a warning to stop or restrict the noise. If the warning is ignored and the noise continues, councils can impose fines of up to £110 for homes and £500 for licensed premises, rising to £1,000 or more if not paid within 14 days.
Non-native plant species
Good: Unlimited fine and possibility of two years in prison.
Regulation: The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
People with green thumbs could be hit with a hefty fine if they grow non-native plant species, either by accident or intentionally. These plants can potentially have a detrimental impact on the ecosystem if introduced into environments where they don’t normally belong.
Under Article 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, residents can be sentenced to an unlimited fine and even up to two years in prison if they plant a prohibited species.
Hose ban
Good: £1,000
Regulation: Section 76 of the Water Industry Act 1991
From watering plants to washing cars, many people will be using their hose this summer, but it’s important to do your research beforehand. In the event of a hosepipe ban, these popular activities are prohibited, with some exceptions. For example, if you have just laid new sod within the last 28 days, you can use the hose to water the newly laid sod.
These bans are put in place by water companies when there is high demand for water and lower supply, especially during the summer months. If a person is found to be using their hose unnecessarily during the ban, they could face a £1,000 fine.
Anna said: “Home insurance policies usually include cover for structures such as sheds, fences and decks, but changes to these structures can affect cover. Be sure to review the terms of your policy to understand what is covered and check any exclusions. and conditions. If you plan to make significant changes to your garden, inform your insurer to ensure your policy still meets your needs.”
The expert added: “Home insurance can also be affected by garden maintenance and safety. Neglecting garden maintenance could lead to claims being rejected if damage is the result of poor maintenance. Insurers can also “have guidelines on items that pose safety risks, such as trampolines or swimming pools, so always check with your insurer before making changes to your garden so as not to compromise your coverage.”
