Highways, Verges and Ditches - Who's responsible for what?

Often residents query “who is responsible for verges and ditches”? Your property deeds may show that your boundary is the middle of the road.  However

• Highways have authority over the highway and verges. Householders and landowners are responsible for ditches and hedges.
• The Parish Council is often asked to tackle a problem ditch or flooding however we have no authority to take action on ditches or hedges without the householder’s permission unless there is an urgent safety requirement.

Devon Highways have provided some helpful guidance - click here for a helpful letter and diagram which sets out the various roadside features and responsibilities.