We will only investigate problems that are a statutory nuisance. For example, if there is rotting food waste on the land which may create an odour or attract pests.
You cannot make an anonymous report to us. We will not share your name or contact details with the person or landowner you are reporting.
We will carry out an investigation and take action where possible. If we cannot take action, you may be able to take legal action yourself.
Overgrown land by a public highway
If vegetation is encroaching onto a public highway, contact Essex Highways.
How overgrown land complaints are assessed
We can investigate complaints about overgrown land or gardens that could be a statutory nuisance.
The Environmental Protection Act 1990 allows us to take action against problems that do one of the following:
- unreasonably and substantially interfere with the use or enjoyment of your home or other premises
- injure health or be likely to injure health
How we assess an overgrown land complaint
Overgrown land and untidy gardens can impact on the appearance of a neighbourhood.
However, we will only take action on untidy gardens or land if they contain items which may be harmful to health or a nuisance, for example, rotting food waste which may create an odour or attract pests.
Not all overgrown gardens attract rats as they also need a supply of food and water.
Inert materials, such as rubble and timber, are unlikely to cause a nuisance.
What happens next
When you make a complaint, we will contact the person responsible to investigate the problem.
We will then decide if the problem is a statutory nuisance and advise the owner on any action they should take.
If we find that the problem is a statutory nuisance, an abatement notice can be served to the person or landowner responsible. Anyone who continues to break the law can be fined.