Weed control

You can report a weed control problem quickly and easily online using our Highways Reporting Tool.

The following FAQs have been complied to help answer any questions you may have around weed control in Suffolk. If your query is not answered below, you can contact the Suffolk Highways Customer Service Centre on 0345 606 6171 or put in an enquiry on our Highways Reporting Tool.

Where can I find out when weed treatment will be completed in my area?

The programme is split between the Districts and Boroughs, highlighting the Town and Parishes which have been completed, which are ongoing and the locations that are programmed up until the end of the season.

Please note that the programme is subject to change due to a range of factors, including bad weather, however the programme will be updated once a month over the course of the weed treatment season to ensure you have access to the most up to date information.

Is the weed treatment solution harmful to humans or animals?

Glyphosate is approved for use in many countries and has been subject to extensive testing and regulatory assessment in the EU, USA and elsewhere, and by the World Health Organisation. 

How long does the solution take to work?

Once the weeds have been treated with the above solution, it will take approximately 2 weeks for the solution to take effect on the weeds and roots. 

This is weather dependant and needs dry weather to be effective. If it rains within 6 hours of the application being applied, this could affect the strength of the solution and the area would require a further treatment. We monitor the forecast and apply the solution when there is a low chance of rain. We may delay treatment if rain or windy conditions are forecast.

How often do you treat the weeds?

Across the county, we undertake two treatments per year. This will commence after the emergence of the spring weed flush.

Why have you not treated the weeds at the times your programme said you would?

Please note that the programme is subject to change range of factors, including bad weather.  The target dates allow movement 1 week prior to the target date and 1 week after. The spreadsheet will be updated once a month over the course of the weed treatment season to ensure you have access to the most up to date programme.

Where do you treat?

We treat all kerb lines adjacent to carriageways and within the road channels (adjacent to the kerb). Treatment is also carried out to the back of a footpath where a building or wall is present however, we do not treat the weeds if the back of the footway is a verge.

What speed can the vehicles travel when spraying?

A quad bike is used to undertake weed control and will travel at the speed of 3mph during application. Although, the vehicle can travel up to 25mph in between treatments.

Which weeds are hazardous to health?

There are five injurious weeds detailed within the Weeds Act 1959. These are; Common Ragwort, Spear Thistle, Creeping of Field Thistle, Broad Leaved Dock and Curled Dock. Additionally, there is Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed. All of these weeds are dealt with under provisions in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Please report hazardous weeds via our online Highways Reporting Tool.