‘Lesser-known’ garden law could see gardeners hit with £500 fine, claim experts

Tabitha Cumming, a property law expert from The Lease Extension Company, has shared the laws gardeners could be breaking in their own gardens without even realising it.

She said: “There are several laws that you could be breaking in your garden without actually being aware.”

1. Trampolines

Tabitha said it’s important trampolines are placed where those jumping on it can’t see into neighbours’ homes or gardens as this can “affect their right to privacy”.

Trampolines are a great way to keep children occupied for hours, however, under Article 8 of the Human Rights Act, bouncing too high can infringe on privacy rights.

Furthermore, the constant creaking sounds of the trampoline could also see homeowners being reported for noise complaints too.

READ MORE: Gardeners could face £5,000 fine if certain plants are not disposed of properly

To avoid this happening, consider placing trampolines away from boundaries or fences and away from people’s windows.

If this isn’t possible, gardeners can install or extend the height of fences, or plant tall trees to enhance privacy.

Households could be slapped with fines of up to £500 and the removal of the trampoline altogether if they don’t comply with these rules.

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Founder of Open Space Concepts Jamie Jones added: “The lack of awareness surrounding certain UK gardening laws can lead to unpleasant surprises for homeowners.

“Understanding these lesser-known regulations is not just about compliance but also about fostering relationships with neighbours and contributing to a peaceful community.”

2. Fallen leaves 

Tabitha said although it may be tempting to ask neighbours to help sweep up fallen leaves from plants on their property that have ended up in your garden, they are not legally obligated to do so.

3. Boundaries 

The legal expert said unless it is outlined in the deeds of a home, there is no legal responsibility to maintain boundaries.

She added: “They can also move over time, so it is best to consult the HM Land Registry before attempting to sort this out yourself.”

4. Hedges

If a hedge grows along the boundary between two gardens, both sides are responsible for trimming and upkeep.

However, Tabitha explained, if the hedge is on a neighbour’s property but grows over the boundary into yours, gardeners will need to ask permission to trim it first or “return the trimmings”.

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