Weed Management
Find out how we manage weeds in the city.
Weed management programme
Over the past two years, we have reviewed and improved our approach to weed management, balancing environmental commitments, resident expectations and value for money.
The 2026 weed management programme, includes 2 full rounds of a controlled-droplet application of glyphosate and additional treatments in hotspot areas if required.
We’ll also maintain exclusion zones where glyphosate is avoided and weeds are removed manually.
This approach supports the aim to reduce reliance on glyphosate while maintaining acceptable street standards. We’ll continue to explore viable alternatives as they become available.
Who is applying the treatment
The council will appoint contractors to apply the treatments.
Opt‑Out Scheme
We run a weed opt‑out scheme to give residents the opportunity to manage weeds on their street. The scheme runs once a year before the citywide programme.
If you and your neighbours are passionate about keeping your street clean, green, and welcoming, this is a great way to make a real difference where you live.
This year, you had to apply for the opt-out scheme by 29 March 2026. After that date, we don't have time to remove a street from our schedule and we carry out standard weed maintenance instead.
Additional information
New approach agreed for tackling weeds on city streets .
Committee report (item 41) to City Environment, South Downs & The Sea Committee on 23 January 2024.