Hedge cutting season now underway across the county

CARLOW Co Council has issued a reminder to landowners about their statutory obligation to ensure trees, hedges, shrubs and other vegetation do not pose a danger to road users, following the opening of the hedge-cutting season, which runs from 1 September until 28 February.

Under section 70 of the Roads Act, 1993, all landowners and occupiers of land or structures, in the interest of safety and the protection of road users, are requested to ensure that roadside structures, trees, hedges, shrubs and other vegetation growing on their land are not, and could not become, a danger to those using or working on public roads.

The council reminded landowners that hedges provide shelter for nesting birds and small animals and that hedge cutting should not be undertaken during the growing season, which runs from 1 March to 31 August. Exceptions can be made for essential public health, safety or road works.

The council also urged landowners to be aware of their responsibilities in relation to invasive species, particularly when Japanese knotweed is present, in which case the hedge should not be cut under any circumstances.

Those who fail to comply with their obligations can face fines of up to €1,270 and/or six months in prison.