You could be fined £5,000 if you break a little-known garden rule this summer

HOMEOWNERS could face a £5,000 fine this summer if they break a garden rule that most people have no idea exists.

Anyone who decides to put out some food for the foxes on a summer evening risks a hefty fine.

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

An important point is that feeding ‘must not harm the foxes or other wild animals.’

Feeding foxes can reduce their ability to find food naturally, potentially threatening their survival during the winter months.

And overfeeding can lead to too many foxes coming to a house, which can cause a nuisance to the neighbors.

Some local authorities have specific rules regarding feeding foxes.

Trevor Williams, founder of fox rescue charity Fox Project, said: “We generally advise people not to feed foxes as it undermines their territory if they don’t make the effort to move further afield.

“Furthermore, foxes don’t just take what they need, they take what’s available and bury it for later.

And if it keeps popping up in the neighbors’ flower pots, they may hire someone who can kill the foxes.”

Fox A Gon experts warned: “Foxes are protected by a range of wildlife protection laws against poisoning, gassing, suffocation, mutilation, stabbing, spearing, drowning, bludgeoning and most forms of snare. Anyone found guilty of carrying out such acts could face a 6-month prison sentence and/or a fine of £5,000 per animal.”

In the UK there is no specific law that would fine people for feeding foxes in their gardens.

However, there are broader considerations on the basis of which fines or sanctions may be imposed.

If feeding foxes causes a nuisance to neighbours, for example if it attracts large numbers of foxes or other wild animals that disturb the peace or cleanliness of the neighbourhood, local authorities can intervene.

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

Some local councils have specific rules regarding feeding wild animals, including foxes. It is also best to check with your local council.

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

Firstly, there are strict rules regarding the height of your fence or hedge.

Angela Slater from Hayes Garden World said: “The standard height of a hedge or fence that provides you with sufficient privacy is usually a maximum of two meters.

“Anything over two metres can be a nuisance to your neighbours and potentially block sunlight in their garden. It can even pose a safety risk.

“Before you put up a fence or hedge, both parties must agree to it. Therefore, make sure you inform your neighbors of your desire for a new fence, so that they do not experience any inconvenience.”

Also be careful about placing fences and barriers that are too high.

Under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, you can be fined £1,000 if your local authority issues an order to reduce the height of your fence or hedge following a complaint from a neighbour.

To keep your neighbours happy, it is also wise to limit noise pollution in your garden as much as possible.

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

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

“But what many people don’t know is that you are not allowed to bury a pet if you live in a rental property, as it is not officially your property.

Also avoid burying your pet in a public place, as this is illegal.

“It is advisable not to allow the burial to come into contact with water sources and to have the burial take place at least 90 cm deep in light soil to protect against scavengers.

“A pet grave that has not been dug properly could earn you a fine of up to £5,000.”

Additionally, many local authorities implement a ban on garden hoses during the summer months, which can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

And owners who allow invasive plant species such as Japanese knotweed to grow face a £5,000 fine.

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

“These plants can cause enormous ecological damage by driving other animals and plants to extinction.

“Japanese knotweed in particular can cause serious damage to drains, but removing it can be the biggest challenge.

“If you have these plants in your garden, it is best to contact a professional as soon as possible.

“It is your responsibility to remove them from your yard to prevent major damage.”

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