Is it illegal to feed stray cats in your garden?
FEEDING stray cats can be considered an act of kindness, but it’s important to understand the legal implications involved.
Before you start putting out bowls of food, it’s essential to know the rules and regulations that may affect this practice.
Is it illegal to feed stray cats in your garden?
In many places, feeding stray cats in your garden is not illegal.
However, local regulations can affect how and where you can provide food for these animals.
Some communities have specific rules designed to prevent the overpopulation of stray animals and mitigate issues like the spread of diseases.
Check with your local authorities to understand the specific regulations that apply to feeding stray cats in your area.
Can you be fined for feeding stray cats in your garden?
Yes, it is possible to face fines if your feeding practices lead to problems in your neighbourhood.
When feeding stray cats, excessive or irresponsible feeding can attract more strays and lead to various issues such as noise disturbances, unsightly messes and potential pest problems.
Local authorities may interpret these issues as “anti-social behaviour”, especially if they result in significant disturbances or complaints from neighbours.
In some cases, you might receive a fine or order to cease feeding the cats if complaints become frequent or if the feeding attracts unwanted pests like rats.
To avoid penalties, it is essential to manage the feeding of stray cats carefully.
Is it illegal to feed any animals in your garden?
Feeding animals in your garden is generally not illegal, but there are various regulations and considerations that you need to be aware of.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, harming animals or feeding them harmful food is prohibited.
This law aims to protect wildlife from practices that could negatively impact their health and well-being.
Additionally, the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 provides local authorities with the power to address issues related to nuisance behaviours.
Authorities could intervene, issuing Public Space Protection Orders or Community Protection Orders to address these problems.
Gardening mistakes that could get you fined
Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking.
While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues.
Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research.
The gardening experts reveal: “If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. “
While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it.
“But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn.
The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO.
You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer.
Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing.
To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries
“Most of the time, it’s easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side,” they add.
“Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance.
“Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height.
“Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn’t have a problem.”
Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade.
But if it obstructs your neighbour’s view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures.
“If you’re not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you’re planning and, if there’s an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance,” advise the gardening experts.
Overhanging branches and plants: “When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour’s tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance,” reveal the pros.
However, it’s important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing.
You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don’t have permission to enter your neighbours garden.