Do the regulations cover shrubs and hedges?
Not generally, but where they have a stem diameter of 75mm (3″) or more and are located in a Conservation Area or within an Area TPO, they may be defined as trees and may therefore be included. There is no legal definition of what a tree is. If in doubt, contact the Council’s Planning Department. Legislation to protect hedgerows came into force on 1st June 1997, reference Hedgerows Regulations 1997 (SI No. 1160). Shrubs and hedges may be protected under planning conditions relating to a permission for development. These normally run for a period of five years after completion. They may also be subject to management or maintenance conditions relating to a planning obligation (a Section 106 Agreement).
