SCHEDULE 1Standards of Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition

Cutting or trimming hedgerows9

1

Cutting or trimming hedgerows is not permitted between 1st March and 31st July inclusive except in accordance with this paragraph.

2

Cutting and trimming are permitted if the hedgerow—

a

overhangs a highway or any other road or footpath so as to endanger or obstruct the passage of vehicles or pedestrians;

b

obstructs or interferes with the view of drivers of vehicles or the light from a public lamp;

c

overhangs a highway so as to endanger or obstruct the passage of horse-riders; or

d

is dead, diseased, damaged or insecurely rooted, and because of its condition it, or part of it, is likely to cause danger by falling on a highway, road or footpath.

3

Hedge-laying and coppicing are permitted between 1st March and 30th April inclusive.

4

Trimming by hand is permitted for six months after the hedgerow is laid.

5

Cutting and trimming are permitted if the Secretary of State has, in order to enhance the environment, improve public or agricultural access, or for reasons relating to livestock or crop production, given the claimant written permission to do so.