Illegally Grazing Horses
Dealing with Unauthorised Horses on Private Land
Our Certificated Enforcement Agents (Bailiffs) will visit your land, serve legal notice, and arrange for the horses to be removed in accordance with UK legislation. We can also check microchips to identify owners and ensure the process is compliant and efficient.
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What is the Illegally Grazing Horses Service?
The service involves the legal management and removal of horses grazing on land without permission. At UK Bailiffs , we handle these situations professionally, following UK law and ensuring animal welfare.
Unauthorised grazing can harm land, agriculture, and safety. Our certificated agents take swift, lawful action under the Animals Act 1971.
What Is the Illegally Grazing Horses Service?
The Illegally Grazing Horses service involves the legal management and removal of horses grazing on private or public land without permission. At UK Bailiffs , we specialise in resolving these issues efficiently and in full compliance with UK law.
Unauthorised grazing can damage land, disrupt agriculture, and create safety concerns. Our certificated enforcement agents handle these cases lawfully while upholding animal welfare standards under the Animals Act 1971 and the Control of Horses Act 2015.
Why Choose UK Bailiffs for Illegally Grazing Horses?
- Specialised Expertise: Our agents are trained in relevant UK legislation, ensuring full legal compliance.
- Swift Action: Rapid response to minimise disruption and restore access to your land.
- Professional Approach: Balanced, respectful handling of cases with a focus on both efficiency and animal care.
With UK Bailiffs, you gain a dependable team ready to act quickly and lawfully.
How Does the Illegally Grazing Horses Service Work?
- Assessment and Notice: We confirm land ownership and serve a Section 7C notice under the Animals Act 1971.
- Detention of Horses: If the horses are not removed, they are legally detained on-site with appropriate care.
- Removal and Impoundment: If unclaimed, we arrange removal to a secure facility or pound in coordination with local authorities.
- Land Protection: We provide advice on measures to prevent future incursions.
Every step is taken in accordance with animal welfare law and property protection regulations.
Welfare & Legal Compliance — What We Do
As part of every instruction, UK Bailiffs ensure that the legal 96-hour detention period is followed by a minimum 14-day holding period before any horse is rehomed, sold, or disposed of — in line with the Control of Horses Act 2015.
We also arrange veterinary assessments and consult with the RSPCA or other appropriate authorities to uphold animal welfare standards under the Animals Act 1971.
Why Addressing Illegally Grazing Horses Matters
Unauthorised grazing can damage crops, fencing, and pasture, disrupt land use, and pose serious safety risks. Taking prompt legal action protects your interests and prevents further escalation.
UK Bailiffs streamline the process and ensure a lawful, efficient resolution every time.
How we help landowners and farmers
We are committed to helping landowners protect their rights and property. Whether it’s agricultural land or private estates, our enforcement teams provide clear advice and decisive action.
From assessment through to removal and aftercare, UK Bailiffs are your trusted partner for managing illegally grazing horses.
Grazing Horses – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Control of Horses Act 2015?
This law allows private landowners to remove horses left without permission by giving a 96-hour written notice. After this, the horses can be sold, rehomed, or disposed of lawfully.
What should I do if horses are left on my land?
Contact UK Bailiff Services immediately. We will attend, serve notice under the Control of Horses Act, and begin the legal process to remove the animals.
How long do I have to wait before the horses can be removed?
The horses must remain unclaimed for at least 96 hours (4 full days) after notice has been properly served.
Do you check for microchips?
Yes. Our enforcement agents scan for microchips and check against national databases to identify the horse’s legal owner.
Can I remove the horses myself?
No. You should not attempt to move or handle the horses yourself. Only trained agents acting within the law should undertake removal.
What happens if the owner comes forward?
If the owner claims the horses during the 96-hour period, they must arrange immediate removal. The landowner may still pursue recovery of costs.
What if the horses are not claimed?
If the horses are unclaimed after the notice period, they may be sold, rehomed, or disposed of under lawful procedures, ensuring animal welfare is not compromised.
Are landowners responsible for the horses?
While the horses are on your land, you must not cause them to suffer. Prompt action via UK Bailiff Services helps mitigate long-term welfare responsibilities.
Do you cover rural and urban properties?
Yes. We respond to both rural and urban land cases across England and Wales, including fields, car parks, and business premises.
What happens if horses are abandoned multiple times?
If repeat trespass occurs, we can assist with legal escalation, deterrent signage, and faster enforcement based on previous history and site risks.
