With the mercury set to reach a scorching 31C this week, the experts among us will be busy in our gardens. Be careful, though: some common gardening practices can get you into trouble, with fines of up to £5,000 or even prison.
If you don’t know, unintentionally growing banned plants like Japanese Knotweed or erecting towering hedges could spell trouble. Compare the Market expert Anna McEntee recommends checking the rules or consulting your local planning authority before embarking on any major landscaping project.
In a bid to keep residents on track over the summer, Anna has highlighted the “typical” garden mistakes and their hefty penalties. Japanese Knotweed, known for its aggressive growth, is particularly difficult to get rid of. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it illegal to plant it or allow it to spread in the wild.
While the plant on its premises is not illegal, allowing it to invade natural areas could lead to fines of up to £5,000, the Mirror reports. Engaging in activities that facilitate its spread, such as “cutting, shaking or throwing away” contaminated cuttings, could see British gardeners facing up to two years in jail, Natural Resources Wales warns. Whether through waste disposal or other means, contributing to the spread of Japanese Knotweed can have significant legal consequences.
High hedges and fences
Fine: £1,000.
Regulations: Anti-Social Behavior Act 2003.
Many homeowners prefer fences and tall hedges for added privacy. However, if these barriers are excessively high, they can disturb neighbors and potentially lead to fines.
Under the Anti-Social Behavior Act 2003, if a neighbor complains about the height of a fence or hedge, the local authority will investigate its impact on the neighbour’s enjoyment of their property. If it is considered harmful, the authority can 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
Fine: £1,000.
Regulations: Environmental Protection Law of 1990.
While it’s great to enjoy time outdoors in pleasant weather, residents should be aware of noise levels to avoid breaking the rules. Under the Environmental Protection Act, noise that “unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of a dwelling or other premises” is considered a “statutory nuisance.”
If a complaint is made, the council can issue a notice to stop or limit the noise. Ignoring this warning and continuing to make noise can result in fines of up to £110 for households and £500 for licensed premises, which can increase to £1,000 or more if not paid within 14 days.
Non-native plant species
Fine: Unlimited fine and possible sentence of two years in prison.
Regulation: Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Garden enthusiasts could face a hefty fine if they grow non-native plant species, whether by accident or intentionally. These plants can potentially harm the ecosystem if they are introduced into environments where they are not found naturally.
Under Section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, residents could be fined an unlimited amount and even imprisoned for up to two years if they plant a prohibited species.
Hose ban
Fine: £1,000.
Regulation: Section 76 of the Water Industry Act 1991.
From watering plants to washing cars, many people will be reaching for their hose this summer, but it’s essential to do your homework first. 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.
Water companies put these bans in place when there is high demand for water and a lower supply, especially during the summer months. If a person is caught using their hosepipe unnecessarily during the ban, they could be fined £1,000.
Anna commented: “Home insurance policies generally 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.”
He added: “Home insurance can also be affected by garden maintenance and safety. Neglecting garden maintenance could lead to claims being rejected if damage is due to poor maintenance. Insurers may also have guidelines about features that pose safety risks, such as diving boards or swimming pools, so always check with your insurer before making changes to your garden to avoid compromising your coverage.”
