Service Description: Advice and information about wildlife, biodiversity, conservation, nature reserves and biological records throughout the Island.
Also known as:- Badgers, Bats, Biodiversity, Deer, Ecological services, Geological services, Grey Squirrels, Japanese Knotweed, Nature Reserves, Ragwort (General enquiries), Red Squirrels, SINCs, Wildlife
Answer: Under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997, it is against the law to remove most countryside hedges without permission. The Regulations are quite complex, so it is advisable to discuss your plans at an early stage with the Countryside Section of the Council, before you seek permission formally. The criteria are more fully explained in the Hedgerows Regulations leaflet. You will need permission if the hedgerow runs either in whole or in part: * Alongside agricultural land; * Common land including town or village greens; * Land used for forestry or breeding or keeping of horses, ponies or donkeys; * A Local Nature Reserve or Site of Special Scientific Interest. You generally do not require permission if the hedgerow is in or borders your garden. - Related Link