We are responsible for weed control on public land, which includes roads, pavements, kerbs, grids (gully), footpaths, parks and cemeteries. Weeds can affect the overall appearance of our city as well as causing damage to surfaces, buildings and can obstruct drains.
We spray weeds in the spring and summer months. Once an area has been sprayed, it takes roughly two to three weeks for weeds to die off.
We do this up to twice a year, between March and October
Our teams start early in the morning so you may not always see them, and our programme is dependent upon the weather, as we don't spray when it's breezy or wet.
Weeds are sprayed with a low toxicity herbicide (Glyphosate) which can be used safely without harming people or animals, however weeds may return between treatments.
Weeds - report a problem
If you are concerned that there is a problem with weeds in your area, use our online form to let us know
Opting out of weed spraying
If you or your community don’t want an area near your property treated with weed spray, you can request that your immediate area or street is not sprayed and treat the weeds yourselves.
To opt out please email us at recycling@manchester.gov.uk, and let us know the exact area.
What we don't do
We do not maintain land that is privately owned, or the responsibility of Registered Social Landlords (RSL) - they have their own grounds teams. You should contact your registered landlord directly if necessary.
We will investigate untidy land causing an eyesore where the land owner cannot be contacted or is not responding to requests.