Council house gardens
As a tenant, it’s your job to keep your garden clean, tidy and safe. Keeping your garden in good condition helps everyone - including you and your neighbours - enjoy a safer and more pleasant place to live.
Do
You are expected to:
- cut the grass regularly during the growing season (March to October)
- keep hedges, shrubs, and trees trimmed and tidy
- keep gardens free of litter, dog mess, dumped items or fly-tipping
- maintain paths, patios, and garden structures (e.g. sheds, fences) in a safe condition
- dispose of garden waste correctly - not in communal areas or over fences
Don't
Make sure you don't:
- let your garden become overgrown or unsightly
- store household rubbish or large items in the garden
- burn rubbish
- avoid having bonfires
- allow plants to cause damage or nuisance to others (e.g. overhanging branches)
If you don't maintain your garden, it could be a breach of tenancy and we may take enforcement action. This includes written warnings, recharge costs and other tenancy action.
Improvements
You must get written permission if you want to make changes to your garden, including:
- decking
- ponds
- large sheds
- fencing
We aim to respond to requests within 10 working days
Communal gardens and shared spaces
We want residents to enjoy shared gardens (this includes help to maintain them if you want to).
You must not store any personal items or interfere with shared planting.
You can't add any plants to communal areas without our express permission. We won't give permission to plant trees
Support
If you are can't maintain your garden due to age, illness or disability, speak to your Housing Officer.
In some cases, we may be able to offer help, refer you to local support services or advise on alternatives.
If you are worried about a warning you’ve received, or feel you need help to meet these expectations, don’t ignore it - talk to us
Last updated 11 November 2025