Keen gardeners have been warned to wait until after 9am to mow the lawn, as lawyers advise against noise disruption which could land you with a £5,000 fine. From early morning lawn mowing to loud parties and DIY renovations, Daniel McAfee, head of legal operations at Lawhive, reveals the legal consequence of springtime activities - and what you can do to avoid the most common neighbour complaints. 

The legal expert warns that a common misconception is that Brits are entitled to make as much noise as they wish on their own property, particularly during the day. However, he says that is not accurate, in his assessment. “What matters is whether the noise amounts to a nuisance in legal terms - location, timing, frequency, and effect on neighbours are all relevant considerations,” Mr McAfee explains. 

While many assume they are free to mow the lawn at their convenience, the legal reality is more nuanced. The expert says: “There is no nationwide restriction on when individuals may cut their grass; however, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance.

“To be more precise, noise that is excessive, unreasonable, and persistent, particularly during unsociable hours, can result in abatement notices, fines up to £5,000, and in some cases, even prosecution.”

Mr McAfee has issued top tips to stay within legal bounds during garden work, which include avoiding very early or late hours. “Generally speaking, it’s safest to operate noisy tools between 9am and 7pm,” he says. 

Notifying neighbours in advance of using machinery, like hedge trimmers or pressure washers, is another way to avoid conflict. Opting for quieter tools where possible is also a safe bet. 

DIY and renovation projects are another frequent source of tension between neighbours, particularly when carried out over long periods or outside of daytime hours. Mr McAfee says to limit work to typical weekday hours (9am to 5pm) and shorter weekend hours, in order to avoid legal complications. 

Disputes can arise even when one party believes they are being reasonable. Mr McAfee recommends a stepwise approach by beginning with informal conversation to highlight the issue, following up in writing if necessary.  

“As a last resort, report the matter to your local authority’s environmental health team. Keep records of dates, times, and the impact of the noise,” he says.