Overgrown gardens and vermin

Overgrown and unkempt gardens do not necessarily indicate a public health issue.

Vermin and rodents

Rats and mice are attracted to areas containing decaying waste, food stuffs or soft furnishings.

If you regularly spot rodents on your property you should check and fix any vulnerable areas of your home, outbuildings and boundary. A professional pest control service will be able to confirm whether there is an infestation issue, and if it is a result of the condition of any neighbouring land. Their report may be passed on to us as evidence of any public health risk and we will take appropriate action.

Foxes are also attracted to overgrown gardens, but they are not considered a public health risk. 

For information and advice on dealing with pests and vermin, see:

• Pest control - including, rats, mice, squirrels, foxes, pigeons, gulls (seagulls) and more ...

Vegetation issues

If vegetation from your neighbour's land is damaging your property or fence, or overhanging the boundary line, this is not a public health matter.

Material can be cut and passed back to the side it's come from, but we recommend you always speak to your neighbour about it first.

Issues involving high hedges can be investigated by the Planning department. For further information please see:

• High hedges

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