Roadside Ditches


Roadside ditches are the responsibility of the adjacent landowner and therefore should be maintained regularly to avoid road surface water draining onto the highway.

It is an offence to allow mud, stones, soil or other material to be carried, or washed onto the highway.

Any inclusion or alteration of a pipe in a ditch should be discussed and agreed by the Isle of Wight Council.


When working conditions could cause matter to fall on the highway, it is essential that the correct operations are carried out, with the inclusion of temporary road warning signs. Facilities must be in place to minimise the risks and to you must arrange for the road to be cleaned continually throughout the length of the work.

To report a Highway Defect (including: Roadside Ditches) Click Here










Page last updated on: 06/04/2005