Overgrown Gardens

Overgrown gardens, in most instances, do not cause or constitute a public health nuisance or an environmental health issue and, although they may look unsightly, they would not usually warrant action by the Council.

You can cut down overhanging vegetation from your neighbour's overgrown gardens, but only to the boundary point that runs between your property and your neighbour's. However, we would advise you to talk with your neighbour first to discuss any issues and try to find a suitable resolution before cutting back vegetation.
Your neighbour may be having difficulty coping with the garden and would appreciate some support, maybe from yourself or perhaps from local charities or volunteer groups.
Damage caused by overgrown vegetation (such as damage to boundary fences) is a civil matter and you should get independent legal advice if this is the case. The Council is unable to assist in these matters.
If you cut back any overgrown vegetation, it is your responsibility to dispose of them, unless your neighbour has asked for them back. If you throw any cuttings back over your neighbour's fence, this could be considered to be fly tipping.

Overgrown gardens can sometimes provide harbourage for pests such as rats and mice in the short-term. However, this usually doesn't result in an ongoing or long-term infestation which would be considered a public health issue. Most gardens, overgrown or not, will frequently be visited or passed through by rodents as they travel between feeding or nesting sites or during their exploratory movements. A sighting doesn't necessarily mean that there is a problem which will become a greater issue or need any action taking.

If you believe you have rats or mice on your property you may wish to contact a pest control service, who will be able to offer advice on treatment. If you have evidence to support they are coming from the neighbouring property, please let us know so we can consider whether any action is needed.
The Planning department may be able to assist if the overgrown land is affecting the amenity of the area, depending on the circumstances of the case. You can report an issue to Planning by following the link below.

https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/council-services/planning/breach-of-planning/ 

In relation to invasive weeds, such as Japanese knotweed, we do not deal with this issue or provide advice. This would be a private matter between the affected party and the landowner, and further advice can be found at 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prevent-the-spread-of-harmful-invasive-and-non-native-plants