Leeds has over 9 million square metres of grass verges, hedges, shrub and rose beds most of which are maintained on behalf of the Council. Grass cutting is generally carried out between March and October. Cuttings are not collected, but should be distributed evenly over the verge and not left on the footpath.
We do not cut grass that is privately owned or on properties and estates which aren't owned by us.
Please don't cut the grass or dig the verge outside your home without getting approval from us first. We will issue you with a licence if you want to do this by downloading the application form or contacting us on 0113 2224406 alternatively you can email us at grass cutting.
Why have the grass cuttings not been removed from the footpath?
Grass cuttings are not collected or removed, but should be distributed evenly over the verge and not left on paths and walkways, in order to prevent slipping.
Why is the grass being cut during adverse weather conditions?
As our contractor is working to a set programme it is important that they try to adhere to the schedule. They will continue to service areas where appropriate, until weather conditions or Health and Safety issues prevent this.
Why have some areas not been cut with the rest of the area (I.e. grass banks/large open spaces)?
The area may be on another maintenance programme as different types of equipment might be required. The contractor has different teams for cutting banks and slopes. Also Leeds City Council’s Parks and Countryside department maintain most parks and sports grounds.
I am not able to do my gardening anymore, can the council do it?
If you live in a council property, please contact your local housing office to see if they can assist. If you are a resident of a private property, please contact Social Care to see if they can assist. Alternatively, search the Leeds Directory under the Website links section.
There are lots of weeds on the pavement - can you send a weed sprayer?
Weed spraying is managed by Parks and Countryside. Please contact them on 0113 395 7400 or at parks@leeds.gov.uk to request a weed sprayer.
What should I do about Japanese Knotweed and other noxious weeds? Please see our Japanese Knotweed information and advice page.
I would like to park my car in my front garden but need to cross a verge and/or footpath to do so, what can I do about this? It is illegal to drive over grass verges or footpaths unless a crossover, approved by Leeds City Council is in place.
If you live in a house owned, or formerly owned by the Council you need to get permission from the local housing office for a hard standing outside your property. When this is granted an application form for the installation of a crossover is available by clicking on the link on this page
To whom do I report builders materials e.g. sand, bricks etc, placed on the grass verge causing damage or obstruction? It is illegal to place building materials, even on a temporary basis, without permission on a verge. Contact the council's Enforcement team with full details of the location. An officer will investigate and ensure these materials are removed, or issue a final warning notice under Section 137 Highways Act 1980 advising that prosecution will be pursued if the materials are not removed.
Permission may be granted by applying for a licence. To apply for a licence, please download and complete the building materials licence application form, from the link on this page, and return it with your payment of £73.40 to the address on the form. Please ensure that your application form has been fully completed otherwise the issue of your licence may be delayed.