Westmeath County Council issue hedge cutting warning
Westmeath County Council have issued a notice to landowners and occupiers of land regarding obligation to cut or trim roadside hedges and trees as the prohibition period for hedge cutting concludes at the end of the month.
The local authority advised landowners to ensure roadside hedges and trees do not put any person’s life in danger.
They say: “Landowners including householders and occupiers of land are reminded that the period for hedge cutting runs from September 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026.
They advise: “Section 70 of the Roads Act 1993 obliges landowners to ensure that any structures, trees or hedges on their property:
Do not obstruct or interfere with the safe use of the public road or footpath.
Do not obstruct or interfere with the maintenance of the public road or footpath.
Do not pose a hazard to people using the public road or footpath.”
Hedgerows along public roads that require cutting or trimming back should be cut immediately and all cuttings removed from the roads and verges. Adequate signposting should be provided.
Roadside trees should be inspected, and necessary action taken to prevent any potential hazard to the public. Such inspections should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.
Liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.
A Guide for Landowners to Managing Roadside Trees is available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This provides information in respect to the warning signs of tree failure and guidance for managing roadside trees.
The Tree Council of Ireland, Trees and the Law | Tree Council, provides detailed guidance in respect to landholders responsibilities including the process of obtaining a felling licence.
The local authority concluded with the warning: “Please note that where Japanese Knotweed occurs it should not be cut. No ground disturbance should take place at these sites at any time of year. Please report all locations of Japanese Knotweed on public roads to your Municipal District Office: Mullingar 044 933 2000 or Athlone 090 6442 100.”