As a council tenant, you are responsible for keeping your garden tidy. This includes mowing the lawn, trimming hedges and keeping the area free of rubbish.
This page explains your responsibilities and where to get help if you can't manage your garden on your own.
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.
Bonfires and barbecues
You can have a bonfire or barbecue at a reasonable time, as long as it does not:
- cause nuisance from smoke or smells
- pose a risk to your home or neighbouring buildings
Trees and hedges
You must not cut down, damage or plant a tree or hedge in your garden without our written permission.
Parking vehicles in your garden
You must get our written permission before parking a vehicle, trailer, caravan or boat in your garden.
If permission is granted, you will need to apply to build a hardstanding or driveway and install a dropped kerb.
For full guidance, including how to apply, see Parking near your council home.
Add structures or make changes to your garden
You must get written permission before:
- putting up a temporary structure, such as a shed, garage, greenhouse or satellite dish
- carrying out major landscaping
- digging a pond
You may be asked to remove these when your tenancy ends.
How to get help with your garden
If you can't maintain your garden, you may be able to get help.
See Apply for help with your council garden for details and eligibility.
Report a concern about a neighbour’s garden
If you are concerned about a neighbour's garden, please contact us and we will investigate.
Contact the Tenancy Management Team
Speak to customer services
If you need to speak to someone about this topic, you can ring or visit our customer service centre.
