THERE are many benefits of growing and maintaining your own vegetable garden.
But having one in your front garden – it is legal? And would you need to seek permission first? Here are some things to consider.
Is it illegal to have a front yard vegetable garden?
You don’t need any permission to grow vegetables in your front yard.
However, there may be some exceptions depending on where you live and who owns the land and property where you reside.
If you’re renting, for example, then the landlord or local authority will have a say over the management of that property.
That includes the garden – especially if it’s communal.
But even if you’re a homeowner, there are still some things to consider before you get started.
Say, if you plant a plum tree and it blocks your neighbours window, they’ll have the right to kick up a fuss.
Under the Rights of Light Act, if a window has received natural light for 20 years or more, your neighbour can block your plans.
This applies to tall hedges or trees, as well as fences, sheds or summer houses to grow your crop – so be sure nothing you build or plant will end up obstructing any natural sunlight.
It’s important to note that in the UK, you can’t have a garden shed in your front garden.
Is it illegal to have a back yard vegetable garden?
If you own your own property then most would assume growing your own vegetables in your back yard is completely acceptable – but that’s not always the case.
Depending on the scale of your vegetable patch, and the classification of your land, you might well have to apply for planning permission.
If a part of your garden is classified as ‘informal open space’, meaning the public should be able to access it freely, then you will need to apply for planning permission from your local authority.
It is recommended that you should always check your local council’s website for specific area rules and regulations before you get started anyway.
But if you do get rejected for planning permission, this doesn’t have to be the end of the world.
Your council may suggest changes that need to occur in order for it to be approved, and you’ll have the opportunity to apply again.
Similarly, if you sell your produce and make a regular profit, you will be classed as an operator and will need to register for a license with the Plant Health Regulation PHR via Gov.org.
Is it illegal to have a front yard flower garden?
There is no rule in the UK against having a flower garden in your front yard, so long as it’s not breaking the the Rights of Light Act.
Ensure your plants and flowers are well maintained, while keeping sure that they do not overgrow and encroach on to your neighbour’s garden to avoid disputes.
Gardening mistakes that could get you fined
Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking.
While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues.
Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research.
The gardening experts reveal: “If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. “
While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it.
“But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn.
The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO.
You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer.
Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing.
To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries
“Most of the time, it’s easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side,” they add.
“Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance.
“Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height.
“Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn’t have a problem.”
Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade.
But if it obstructs your neighbour’s view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures.
“If you’re not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you’re planning and, if there’s an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance,” advise the gardening experts.
Overhanging branches and plants: “When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour’s tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance,” reveal the pros.
However, it’s important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing.
You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don’t have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
