Can You Cut Hedges During Bird Nesting Season in the UK?

Written By Angus Bishop

As spring and summer arrive, many homeowners start thinking about hedge cutting and garden maintenance. However, one question comes up every year: can you cut hedges during bird nesting season in the UK?

The short answer is sometimes, but only with care. UK wildlife laws protect nesting birds, and failing to follow them can result in serious penalties. In this guide, we explain what’s legal, what’s not, and how professional hedge cutting services can help you stay compliant.

What Is Bird Nesting Season in the UK?

Bird nesting season in the UK generally runs from March to August, although some birds may start nesting earlier or later depending on weather conditions.

Why nesting season matters

During this period, it is illegal to disturb nesting birds, their eggs, or their nests. This includes activities such as:

  • Hedge cutting

  • Hedge reduction

  • Tree pruning or removal

Even routine garden maintenance can unintentionally cause harm.

Is It Illegal to Cut Hedges During Bird Nesting Season?

The legal position in the UK

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to:

  • Damage or destroy an active bird’s nest

  • Disturb birds while they are nesting

There is no blanket ban on hedge cutting, but it becomes illegal if nesting birds are present.

What this means for homeowners

  • You must check for nests before cutting hedges

  • Ignorance of nesting birds is not a legal defense

  • Fines can reach thousands of pounds per offence

Can You Cut Hedges If There Are No Birds Nesting?

Yes – but only after a proper inspection

If a hedge has no active nests, hedge trimming may be allowed. However:

  • Nests can be well hidden

  • Birds may return quickly

  • Inexperienced checks often miss activity

This is where professional hedge services are strongly recommended.

bird nesting in hedge

Why Use Professional Hedge Cutting Services During Nesting Season?

How professionals protect nesting birds

A qualified hedge cutting contractor will:

  • Carry out thorough visual nest inspections

  • Identify signs of bird activity

  • Use bird-safe hedge trimming techniques

  • Advise whether work should be postponed

At Gus Bishop Tree Services, all hedge work during nesting season is approached with legal compliance and wildlife protection as a priority.

Emergency Hedge Cutting During Bird Nesting Season

When hedge cutting is still allowed

In certain situations, emergency hedge work may be permitted, such as:

  • Hedges blocking roads or footpaths

  • Storm-damaged hedges posing danger

  • Overgrown hedges affecting visibility

Even in emergencies, nesting checks are still required.

When Is the Best Time to Cut Hedges in the UK?

Recommended hedge cutting times

  • Autumn and winter are the safest periods

  • September to February avoids nesting season

  • Structural hedge reductions are best done outside spring/summer

Planning hedge maintenance early helps avoid legal issues and higher costs.

What Happens If You Disturb a Bird’s Nest?

Disturbing an active nest can lead to:

  • Criminal prosecution

  • Unlimited fines

  • Damage to your reputation as a homeowner or landlord

Using a professional hedge cutting service significantly reduces this risk.

Book Professional Hedge Cutting You Can Trust

If you’re unsure whether your hedge can be cut during bird nesting season, don’t take the risk. A professional inspection can save time, money, and legal trouble.

Contact Gus Bishop Tree Services for:

  • Professional hedge cutting

  • Bird-safe hedge inspections

  • Emergency hedge work

  • Fully insured, experienced local service

Angus Bishop
Next

Hedge Trimming Tips & When to Call in a Professional