As a council tenant, you are responsible for looking after your garden and keeping it tidy.
This page explains your responsibilities, the changes you need permission to make and where to get help if you are unable to maintain your garden.
Your responsibilities
You must take reasonable steps to keep your garden tidy. This includes:
- mowing the lawn regularly
- trimming hedges and bushes
- clearing weeds from beds, paths and patios
- removing any rubbish
- keeping sheds, greenhouses and other structures in good condition
Check your tenancy agreement for full details.
Changes you need permission to make
You must get our written permission before making certain changes to your garden.
To request permission, email landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk with details of the changes you want to make. Do not start any work until you have received our written approval.
Trees and hedges
You must not plant, cut down or damage a tree or hedge without our permission.
Parking vehicles in your garden
You must get our permission before parking a vehicle, trailer, caravan or boat in your garden.
If permission is granted, you will also need to apply to build a hardstanding or driveway and install a dropped kerb.
See Parking near your council home for more information.
Garden structures and landscaping
You must get our permission before:
- putting up a temporary structure, such as a shed, garage, greenhouse or satellite dish
- carrying out major landscaping work
- digging a pond
You may be required to remove these when your tenancy ends.
Bonfires and barbecues
You can have bonfires and barbecues in your garden if you follow the guidance for Smoke Control Areas and the rules about bonfires.
They must not:
- cause a nuisance from smoke or smells
- pose a risk to your home or neighbouring properties
Get help with your garden
If you live in a council home and you can't manage your garden, you may be able to get help. We offer 2 garden schemes for eligible tenants:
- Summer Garden Scheme - regular garden maintenance
- Winter Clearance Scheme - one-off clearance service for severely overgrown gardens
See Apply for help with your council garden for details and eligibility criteria.
Report a concern about a neighbour’s garden
If you are concerned about the condition of a neighbour's garden, contact us and we will investigate.
