Only allowed in the cold season: cut shrubs in accordance with the Federal Nature Conservation Act

Only allowed in the cold season: cut shrubs in accordance with the Federal Nature Conservation Act

Strict time frame: October 1st to April 28th / 29th February

The legal situation is the same for garden owners and allotment gardeners as it is for cities and municipalities: In the period between March 1st and September 30th, it is strictly forbidden to severely prune hedges and shrubs. Anyone who does not adhere to them faces a fine of several thousand euros. Since this nationwide time frame may be extended by the individual countries, you should find out about the legal situation that applies to you.

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Which trees and pruning measures are affected?

“It is forbidden to cut, put on the cane or remove […] trees, […], hedges, living fences, bushes and other woody plants in the period from March 1st to September 30th; Gentle shape and maintenance cuts to remove the growth of plants or to keep trees healthy are permitted ”, is the wording of the legal text.

Specifically, this means: During the period mentioned, only the annual wood may be cut back to keep the plants in shape. Cutting back into perennial wood or removing entire trees is not allowed.

The regulation expressly applies to all types of woody plants:

  • Shrubs and bushes of all kinds of plants
  • Bamboo, reeds and other reeds
  • Topiary hedges
  • Ornamental trees
  • Trees

Please note that it is not only permitted, but even compulsory, to cut back hedges and bushes so that they do not grow into sidewalks or roadways.

Why is it not allowed to cut between March 1st and September 30th?

It is not for nothing that the legislature prescribes these strict rules: They serve the purpose of nature conservation, in particular the protection of small animals that nest in trees and seek protection. In the spring, many species begin to build nests and nest holes in hedges, trees and bushes. They need the protected environment to raise their young undisturbed. If they are disturbed by pruning measures in summer, they may orphan their brood.

Therefore, you should also pay attention to your animal roommates in the garden when pruning and, if in doubt, leave the hedge trimmer (€ 135.56 on Amazon *) in the tool shed. Overgrown shrubs have not harmed anyone, but a loss of biodiversity through encroachment on nature can have serious consequences for us all.