DEFRA
31st of October, 2024
Consultation on the regulatory approach and use of civil sanctions for hedgerow management
Hedgerows are a vital part of our countryside. They benefit our wildlife, the environment, and our landscapes. We know that farmers, land managers, and the general public greatly value hedgerows. The Management of Hedgerows (England) Regulations 2024 (‘the Regulations') set out the rules for hedgerow management together with our approach to enforcement and the civil sanctions which may apply. The RPA has been appointed by the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to act on his behalf as Regulator in respect of the Regulations.
This consultation seeks views on the approach to the use of civil and criminal sanctions. The RPA has a range of actions or ‘sanctions’ available to help them enforce the Regulations including both civil sanctions and criminal sanctions. Criminal sanctions will only be used for the most serious offences.