Equine Removal.

We don’t recommend this.

Moving horses yourself, or taking unofficial action, can expose you to criminal or civil consequences and often makes the situation harder to resolve. The correct approach is to follow the proper procedure from start to finish, including notifying the police, attempting to trace the owner, and sticking to legal timescales.

When removing equines from your land, you must:

• Use Specialists: Professional bailiffs and equine experts must be engaged; you may not remove the horses yourself.
• Follow Statutory Procedures: Including the Control of Horses Act 2015, you must notify police and trace owners.
• Maintain Animal Welfare: Proper care is the landowner’s responsibility; causing suffering is a criminal offence.

If you discover horses fly-grazing on your land, contact us as soon as possible so an expert can attend and ensure the correct procedures are followed.

Fly-grazing refers to the unauthorised placement of horses on land without the owner’s consent. This creates multiple problems for property owners: land deteriorates through overgrazing, fences get damaged, and you may become legally responsible if someone is injured by these animals. The horses themselves often suffer from neglect.

The removal of horses that have been abandoned or allowed to graze on land without permission is usually carried out under the Control of Horses Act 2015. Before the Act came into force on 26 May 2015, the process was far more complicated as it relied on older laws such as the Animals Act 1971 or the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977, which often resulted in unnecessary delays and costs.

The Act changed this by granting landowners and local authorities the power to detain horses found on their land without lawful authority. Once a horse is detained, the bailiff must notify the police and, if possible, the horse’s owner within 24 hours of discovery. Owners then have 96 hours (excluding weekends and bank holidays) in which to reclaim their horses and pay all costs associated with detention and transportation. If they don’t, the horses can be rehomed, sold, or, in unfortunate circumstances, humanely destroyed.

Whilst the Act simplifies enforcement, it also places a duty of care on those detaining the horses. Landowners must ensure the animals receive adequate food, water, and reasonable care during detention, as failure to do so can result in liability for any harm caused. Horses can be held on-site or moved to a secure location, with on-site detention generally being the most cost-effective option. If the horses remain unclaimed after four days, bailiffs can arrange for removal to a charity or another approved destination.

Despite the horses being there illegally, you’re legally required to meet animal welfare standards once you’ve taken control of them. This means providing adequate shelter, food, water and veterinary attention if needed. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes no exceptions for trespassing animals. Poor treatment during the impoundment period will expose you to prosecution and weaken your legal standing. Engaging experienced professionals to manage the animals’ care is advisable.

There is a genuine risk if procedures aren’t followed correctly. Causing unnecessary suffering to any animal, including horses that are trespassing, is a criminal offence. You could also be held responsible if you allow someone working on your behalf to mistreat the animals. This is why following established legal procedures and working with qualified specialists is so important. Proper handling protects both the animals and your legal position.

Detailed documentation is essential and may prove crucial if challenged later. Keep records of when you discovered the horses, every notice you issue, attempts to identify or contact owners, all expenses incurred, photographic evidence of the animals and any damage and correspondence with authorities. Thorough paperwork demonstrates that you’ve acted lawfully and reasonably, which significantly strengthens your position should disputes emerge. This is all done for you when you work with Strikes Property Services Group.

ot necessarily. The law recognises that you shouldn’t bear the financial burden of someone else’s irresponsible behaviour. You’re entitled to claim reimbursement for reasonable expenses including feeding, veterinary treatment and repairing damage the horses caused. Any proceeds from selling detained animals can be applied against your costs. Keeping accurate financial records throughout the process is vital for recovering what you’ve spent.

Good boundary maintenance is your first line of defence. Ensure fencing is sound and consider installing clear warning signs. If unfamiliar horses appear, contact police or your local authority immediately rather than waiting to see what happens. Building relationships with neighbouring farmers and local equestrian groups can also help, as word travels quickly in rural communities. Early intervention prevents temporary problems becoming permanent ones.