Trees, hedges and grass verges

Grass verges, trees, shrubs and hedges around the roadside are known as soft landscape areas.

Maintaining trees, shrubs, hedges and verges

We maintain the vegetation - verges, trees, shrubs and hedges - on the land that we are responsible for maintaining. We have also produced an annual grass cutting and weed control district schedule PDF (88k). Please note the dates published within this schedule are approximate and weather dependant.

Soft landscape areas need to be maintained so that:

• roads, cycle paths and pavements are clear of obstructions
• drivers can see clearly at junctions and bends to keep the road safe
• width and height clearances are maintained
• the pathways are safe to walk on and don't get damaged by weed roots
• verges are kept neat and tidy
• the area is attractive for local residents and visitors.

Your help in maintaining highway verges

We are sometimes asked by residents if they can maintain the verges near their homes. We are pleased that individuals take an interest and we have produced a guide for Kent residents wanting to help maintain highway verges (PDF, 16k).

Areas maintained by others

A large amount of vegetation is on land we don't own; it could be owned by private landowners, district councils, parish councils, housing associations and so on. It is the responsibility of the landowner to maintain these areas.

Reporting a problem

If you think a tree, shrub, hedge or verge is causing a problem on a pavement, path or road contact us. Either use our online fault reporting form or call us on 08458 247 800.

Important: If the issue is a hazard to public safety or anything else urgent, then call us immediately on 08458 247 800. Do not use the online reporting form.