Wiltshire Council is responsible for keeping footways, verges and carriageways free of obstruction from overhanging vegetation such as hedges, trees, and bushes.
 
Where the vegetation is growing from within the limits of the highway, the council is responsible for cutting and removing it. However, where vegetation is growing out from within a property on to a footway or carriageway, it is the responsibility of the landowner.

This includes footpath obstructions; vegetation that obstructs sight lines for vehicle users; street furniture obstructions, such as blocking streetlights; and anything that reduces the clear height above the carriageway below 5m.
 
To help landowners comply with this obligation, WC has created a standard letter that parishes can use to send to landowners. If the landowner still does not take action, WC can use powers under the Highways Act 1980 Section 154. The work to clear the vegetation can be completed and the cost recovered from the landowner.

The template letter below should only be used by parish council clerks. Anyone else concerned about hedges should contact their Parish Council.

Download the template letter