Hedge and tree pruning: rules and nesting season

In short: In Germany, hedges and trees may only be gently maintained, not radically cut back, from 1 March to 30 September. Birds breed in this period.

In more detail: The Federal Nature Conservation Act prohibits heavy pruning or felling of hedges and woody plants outside woods during the breeding season.

In detail

• Allowed: Light shaping and maintenance cuts so plants stay alive.
• Forbidden: Radical pruning, felling or coppicing from 1 March to 30 September.
• Nesting birds: Check for nests before cutting; an occupied nest rules out any cutting.
• Fines: Violations can be very expensive.
• Tree protection by-law: Many municipalities protect larger trees. Ask before felling.
• Fruit trees: Prune in winter or after harvest; summer pruning slows growth.
• Neighbours: Mind overhanging branches and neighbour law (biodiversitaet-und-artenvielfalt).