NOTICE TO LANDOWNERS AND OCCUPIERS OF LAND REGARDING OBLIGATION TO CUT/TRIM ROADSIDE HEDGES/TREES

PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR ROADSIDE HEDGES AND TREES DO NOT PUT ANY PERSON’S LIFE IN DANGER.

Landowners including householders and occupiers of land are reminded that the period for Hedge Cutting runs from 1st September 2026 to the 28th February 2027. This is the only period during which hedge and verge cutting is permitted under S40 of the Wildlife Act 1976.

Section 70 of the Roads Act 1993 obliges landowners to ensure that any structures, trees or hedges on their property:

• Do not obstruct or interfere with the safe use of the public road or footpath
• Do not obstruct or interfere with the maintenance of the public road or footpath
• Do not pose a hazard to people using the public road or footpath

Hedgerows along public road that require cutting or trimming back should be cut immediately and all cuttings removed from the roads and verges. Adequate signposting should be provided.

Roadside trees should be inspected, and necessary action taken to prevent any potential hazard to the public. Such inspections should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel. Liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.

Failure to comply may result in enforcement action, including the issuing of a Hedge Cutting Notice.

Further guidance / information is available at:

Department Of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, A Guide for Landowners to Managing Roadside Trees

Westmeath County Council Best Tree Management

Please note that where Japanese Knotweed occurs it SHOULD NOT BE CUT. No ground disturbance should take place at these sites at any time of year. Please report all locations of Japanese Knotweed on public roads to your Municipal District Office: Mullingar 044/9332000 or Athlone 0906442100

Westmeath County Council wishes to thank landowners for their co-operation in this matter

Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 25/09/2026