12/06/2026
🌿 A quick note about nesting season and hedge cutting… 🌿
Every year around this time I see posts shared saying that it’s illegal to cut hedges or carry out tree work during nesting season. .
It’s a well. intentioned message, but it isn’t quite that straightforward.
The law protects nesting birds and active nests, which is exactly as it should be. It is an offence to intentionally damage or destroy an active nest, or disturbnesting birds. What many people don’t realise is that there isn’t a blanket ban on all hedge cutting and tree work throughout the nesting season.
The March to August restrictions people often refer to mainly relate to certain countryside and agricultural hedgerows. Most domestic garden hedges are exempt from those particular regulations.
That doesn’t mean wildlife should be ignored. Far from it.
Anyone who knows me knows that I spend most of my working life outdoors, and looking after the natural environment is one of the reasons I enjoy this job so much. Before any hedge cutting or tree work is carried out , I always undertake a thorough inspection of the vegetation and surrounding habitat.
If there’s evidence of nesting activity, the work is postponed or adapted accordingly.
Wildlife protection isn’t just a legal obligation, it’s a personal one too.
Trees and hedges still sometimes need maintenance for safety, access, property management or plant health reasons, but it should always be done responsibly and with proper consideration for the wildlife that may be using themn
If you’re unsure whether work can be carried out on your trees or hedges, feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to offer honest advice.
🌳 Protect wildlife. Follow the law. Manage trees responsibly.
www.ldtreecare.com
