Overgrown gardens

Overgrown gardens, in most instances, do not cause or constitute a public health nuisance or environmental health issue and, although they look unsightly, they would not usually warrant action by the Council.

South Tyneside Council properties

If the property concerned is looked after by South Tyneside Council, please report the overgrown garden to the Contact Centre on 0300 123 6633. 

You can cut down overhanging vegetation from your neighbour's overgrown gardens, but only to the boundary point that runs between your property and your neighbour's.

You should talk with your neighbour first to discuss any issues and try to find a suitable resolution before cutting back vegetation.

It may be that your neighbour is having difficulty coping with the garden and would appreciate some support, maybe from yourself or perhaps from local charities or volunteer groups.

Damage caused by overgrown vegetation (such as damage to boundary fences) is a civil matter and you should get independent legal advice if this is the case. The Council is unable to assist in these matters.

If you cut back any overgrown vegetation, it is your responsibility to dispose of them, unless your neighbour has asked for them back. If you throw any cuttings back over your neighbour's fence, this could be considered fly tipping.

Overgrown gardens can sometimes provide harbourage for pests such as rats and mice in the short-term; however this usually doesn't result in an ongoing or long-term infestation which is considered a public health issue.

Most gardens, overgrown or not, will frequently be visited or passed through by rodents as they travel between feeding or nesting sites or during their exploratory movements. A sighting doesn't necessarily mean that there is a problem which will become a greater issue or need any action taking.

If you have rats or mice on your property you may wish to contact a pest control service, who will be able to offer advice on treatment. The Council offers a chargeable pest control service for homes and businesses in South Tyneside.

Find out more about pest control.

Action against a property owner in respect of overgrown vegetation will only be taken where a public health issue has been identified and confirmed by the Council.

There must be sufficient evidence to show that:

• there is a significant and ongoing rodent infestation caused or exacerbated by the garden's/land's condition, and
• baiting of adjacent properties or land has proved to be ineffective in eliminating the rodent issue

Evidence will be required to show this is the case.

Overhanging trees or branches can cause safety problems and be inconvenient.

You can report problem trees or branches on roads, pavements or public rights of way such as footpaths or bridleways.

See overhanging trees and branches.

For information on invasive non-native or harmful weeds, such as Japanese knotweed or common ragwort, go to GOV.UK: Prevent the spread of harmful invasive and non-native plants.