Understanding Lawn Care Laws: Navigate Regulations and Avoid Penalties for June Grass Cutting

Mowing your lawn in June can sometimes cost you a lot of money, or even expose you to a ban. Find out the risks involved and what they are!

Mowing your lawn in June can result in a hefty fine if you do not respect the times authorized by regulations. Indeed, according to Decree No. 2006-1099, you can be fined up to 180 euros if you mow outside defined time slots.
In addition to the financial risks, it is recommended by the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) not to mow in June to preserve the fauna and flora. This practice disrupts ecosystems and prevents pollination and dispersal of species necessary for balanced biodiversity.
To maintain your lawn responsibly, it is advisable to postpone the first mowing until March or April, to maintain a suitable cutting height and to avoid mowing during critical months for wildlife.
So, although mowing in June is not explicitly prohibited by law, it is preferable to follow the recommendations in order to preserve the environment and avoid financial penalties.

Risk of fine for mowing in June

You ask if mowing your lawn in June could earn you a salty fine? Current regulations do not explicitly prohibit mowing in this month, but there are restrictions on the times to be respected. According to decree no. 2006-1099 https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000459023 intended to limit annoying noises, you can mow your lawn:

• Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sundays and public holidays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Failure to comply with these times may result in fine of 68 euros, which can go up to 180 euros if it is not paid within 45 days.

Recommendations from the Bird Protection League

In addition to the regulations, it is strongly recommended not to mow your lawn in June for ecological reasons. The LPO (Bird Protection League) insists that mowing be avoided during this period in order to protect the wildlife and the flora. Mowing in June seriously disrupts ecosystems, particularly for birds, insects, and even certain mammals such as hedgehogs.

The consequences on biodiversity

The LPO explains that cutting grass short in June prevents plants from flowering, thus reducing the pollination and the species dispersal. A richly diversified lawn, with various plant layers, promotes the development of balanced biodiversity, essential for a healthy environment. Maintaining varied vegetation provides habitat and a food source for many species.

How to maintain your lawn responsibly

For ecological maintenance of your lawn, it is recommended to:

• Postpone the first mowing until March or April, when the grass reaches 7 to 8 centimeters
• Maintain mowing at a height of 3 centimeters for an ornamental lawn, and 5 centimeters for a decorative lawn.
• Avoid mowing during critical wildlife months, such as June

FAQs

Q: Can I mow my lawn in June?

A: It is not recommended to mow in June to protect the flora and fauna, but it is not prohibited by law.

Q: What is the ideal height to mow my lawn?

A: For an ornamental lawn, the ideal height is 3 centimeters; for a decorative lawn, 5 centimeters.

Q: What are the permitted times for mowing?

A: Hours vary, but generally, you can mow Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Q: What are the risks if we do not respect mowing schedules?

A: You risk an initial fine of 68 euros, which can rise to 180 euros if it is not paid within 45 days.