Hedgerow regulations restrict the removal of hedgerows, or parts of hedgerows which are over 20m in length.
This legislation only applies to country hedgerows, which includes hedge next to common land, Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest or land used for agriculture, forestry, or land used for the breeding/keeping of horses, ponies or donkeys. Domestic (for example garden) hedges are excluded from this legislation.
For removal, a hedgerow removal licence must be applied for to the local planning authority. Important hedgerows will be protected by the issue of a hedgerow retention notice (these will also be issued by the local planning authority). To be defined as important, a hedgerow must be at least thirty years old, and must fulfil one of a number of criteria
- Application form for hedgerow removal notice (Form 21)
- Form 21 help text - the help text will aid with completion of the form
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