We apply treatment for weeds throughout the growing season across York, to control weeds growing on public land, including:
- kerbs
- footpaths
- back lanes
Before reporting a concern relating to weeds, you should check how we deal with the treatment of weeds across the city.
The first weed control spray started on the 17 June 2024. The team will work around the city in each ward and the task is expected to finish by 7 July 2024.
Use our eForm to report a concern with weeds on public land.
Report a problem with weeds or moss
How we treat weeds
Weed killer is delivered using ride-on machinery, and a handheld pump spray bottle where access is difficult with ride-on machinery.
We use modern technology and best practice to reduce the amount of chemicals used, using a non-residual, contact weed killer which has no harmful effects on the soil.
Over the past few years we've trialled a number of alternative treatment options for weed control, including an acetic acid and a nonanoic acid. These did not prove effective in controlling weed growth. We'll continue to evaluate other treatment options and may undertake further trials in the future.
Because of the way we treat weeds:
- only weeds that are growing at the time of treatment will be sprayed
- weeds will begin to die 10 or more days after they have been sprayed
- any weeds that appear after treatment will continue to grow until the next treatment
- weeds are always visible, but in various states
Subject to weather conditions and the growing season, we aim to treat weeds:
- 2 times a year
- between the end of May and the end of September
Each application takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks to complete across the city, depending on the weather.
We start to inspect treated areas 3 weeks after the start of the season, and apply further treatments where required.
We'll respond to requests to treat weeds and moss within 5 working days.
We cannot treat weeds on private land. Contact us if you wish to report concerns about overgrown weeds on private property.