As the “No Mow May” initiative concludes, garden enthusiasts are preparing to fire up their lawn mowers for the first trim of the season. However, they are being cautioned to be mindful of the time when engaging in weekend gardening activities, as failure to do so could result in fines of up to £5,000.
Local authorities have the power to penalize individuals who disrupt the peace by mowing their lawns at unsociable hours. Noise Abatement Notices may be issued if the noise from grass-cutting becomes a nuisance to neighbors. According to the Express, during weekdays, it is generally acceptable to use a lawn mower between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. However, on weekends, it is advisable to limit mowing to the hours between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to avoid any potential trouble.
East Coast Fencing advises that while many people prefer to tackle household and garden chores, including lawn mowing, on weekends, this is also when noise complaints tend to increase. Families are more likely to be at home, relaxing or catching up on sleep. To prevent any frustrations, it is important to pay extra attention to the timing of lawn mowing on Saturdays and Sundays.
On weekdays, acceptable mowing hours in residential areas typically range from around 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This schedule accommodates workers who may need to start their lawn care early before heading to work or later in the evening upon returning home. Weekday allowances are often slightly more flexible compared to weekends.
During weekends, stricter noise rules may apply due to most residential homes being occupied throughout the day. Many councils recommend no lawn mowing before 9 a.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. on Sundays, with a cut-off time of 7 p.m. These specific timings may vary depending on local council noise regulations, so it is strongly recommended to check their advice.
“There is no nationwide restriction on when individuals may cut their grass; however, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance,” explains Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive. “Non-compliance with an abatement notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 for domestic premises. These fines are real and local authorities do enforce them.”
Noise that is excessive, unreasonable, and persistent, particularly during unsociable hours, can result in abatement notices, fines up to £5,000, and in some cases, even prosecution.
To avoid any issues, it is recommended to avoid using noisy tools during very early or late hours. Generally, operating such tools between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. is safest. Neighbors should be notified in advance of the use of machinery like hedge trimmers or pressure washers. Where possible, quieter tools should be opted for.
Additionally, it is important to limit the duration of noisy activities and avoid back-to-back noisy days, especially on weekends. Consider the specific circumstances of neighbors, such as shift workers or those with infants, and adjust accordingly.
