Property owners encouraged to cut overgrown vegetation to reduce storm risks
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment is urging property owners to trim back overhanging trees and hedges extending onto Bermuda’s roads as part of its “Trim It Back” campaign.
The initiative encourages residents to routinely manage vegetation to improve road safety, protect essential workers, and strengthen the island’s preparedness ahead of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.
A Ministry spokesperson said keeping roadside vegetation under control is a shared responsibility that benefits the entire community.
“Keeping hedges and trees properly trimmed is an important responsibility for all property owners,” the spokesperson said. “It helps keep our roads safe, protects public officers while carrying out essential services, and ensures those services can continue without unnecessary disruption.”
The spokesperson added that maintaining vegetation is especially important as hurricane season approaches.
“In the lead up to hurricane season, managing vegetation also plays a key role in reducing potential damage and supporting effective response and recovery efforts. Residents are encouraged to act now as part of their contribution to a safer and more prepared community.”
The Ministry warned that overgrown trees and hedges can cause significant disruption to essential public services. Branches extending into roadways can strike waste collection trucks and other government vehicles, resulting in broken windscreens, costly repairs and service interruptions.
Dense vegetation can also create hazards for sanitation workers and other vehicle operators, increasing the risk of injury when travelling along narrow or obstructed roads.
Residents are being encouraged to remember the campaign’s message: “Trim it back. Keep our roads safe and our workers protected.”
