You’ll get £5k FINE for breaking garden rule this summer & most people have NO idea it exists – don’t fall into the trap

HOMEOWNERS risk at £5,000 fine for breaking a garden rule this summer and most people have no idea that it exists.

Anyone who decides on leaving some food out for foxes on a summer evening risks a whopping fine.

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Although its not illegal to feed foxes in the UK, the animals are protected under the Welfare Animal Act 2006.

A key point is that feeding "should not cause harm to the foxes or other wildlife."

Feeding foxes can reduce their ability to forage naturally, which could threaten their survival during the winter months.

And over feeding can attract too many foxes to a house, creating a nuisance for neighbours.

And some local authorities have particular rules around the feeding of foxes.

Trevor Williams, founder of fox rescue charity Fox Project said: "Generally we suggest people don’t feed foxes, because it will undermine their territory if they can’t be bothered to go farther afield.

"Also, foxes don’t just take what they need – they take what’s available and bury it for later.

And if it’s constantly turning up in next door’s flowerpots, they may end up getting in someone to deal with the foxes lethally."

The experts at Fox A Gon warned : "Foxes are protected under a series of wildlife protection laws against poisoning, gassing, asphyxiating, maiming, stabbing, impaling, drowning, clubbing and most forms of snaring, with anyone convicted of carrying out such acts liable to 6 months imprisonment and/or a £5,000 fine per animal."

In the UK, there isn't a specific law that directly fines individuals for feeding foxes in their gardens.

However, there are broader considerations under which fines or penalties could potentially be applied.

If feeding foxes causes a nuisance to neighbours, such as attracting large numbers of foxes or other wildlife that disrupts the peace or cleanliness of the neighbourhood, local councils may intervene.

This could result in warnings, fines, or other measures under local nuisance laws.

Some local councils may have specific regulations regarding feeding wildlife, including foxes. It is also best to check with your local council.

There are also other hidden rules that many homeowners might be unaware of.

First, there are strict rules governing the height of your fence or hedge.

Angela Slater  from Hayes Garden World's  said: " The standard hedge and fence height that gives you enough privacy is usually a maximum of two metres.

"Anything above two metres may be a nuisance for your neighbours and potentially block sunlight into their garden, or even cause safety concerns.

"Before erecting a fence or hedge, both parties will need to agree to it, so ensure you notify your neighbours of your wish for a new fence so there is no disturbance."

You should also be careful with erecting excessively high fences and hedges.

Under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, you could be hit with a £1,000 fine if your local authority issues a notice to you to reduce the height of the fence or hedge - prompted by a neighbour's complaint.

To keep your neighbours happy, it's also worth keeping noise nuisance in your garden to a minimum as much as possible.

There are also rules about burying pets in the garden, which is something many of us do.

Angela said: "It is completely understandable that you would want to bury your pet in your garden - it’s private, personal and can be much cheaper.

"But what many don’t know is that you are not permitted to bury a pet if you live in a rented property, as they are technically not your grounds.

"Similarly, avoid burying your pet in a public space as this is illegal.

"It is advised that the burial shouldn’t be in contact with any water sources and be buried at least three feet deep in light soil to safeguard against scavengers.

"An improperly dug pet burial can land you a fine of up to £5,000."

And many local authorities bring in hosepipe bans during the summer months, which can lead to a £1,000 fine.

And owners who let invasive plants like Japanese knotweed run riot risk a £5,000 fine.

Angela said: "If you find you have invasive plants and noxious weeds, such as Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed, in your garden, you will need to take action, or you will face a fine of up to £5,000.

"These plants can cause massive ecological damage by causing extinction to other animals and plants.

"Japanese knotweed specifically can create serious damage to drain pipework, but removing it can be the main difficulty.

"If you find yourself with these plants in your garden, it is best to contact a professional urgently.

"It is your responsibility to get them removed from your garden to avoid extensive damage."