How to Apply for BN11 or BN7 Countryside Stewardship (2026 Step-by-Step Farmer Guide)

If you’re planning to plant a new hedge (BN11) or fill gaps in an existing hedge (BN7), the good news is that the Countryside Stewardship application is much simpler than it looks. You don’t need to wade through pages of DEFRA guidance — this step-by-step guide takes you through the exact process farmers need to follow for the 2026 Capital Grants round.

---

1. Confirm Your Hedge Plan

Before you start your application, make sure you’ve already:

✔ Checked you’re eligible

✔ Decided whether it’s BN11 (new hedge) or BN7 (gapping-up)

✔ Measured the hedge length in metres

✔ Walked the line to check access, slopes, gateways and livestock issues

This will make mapping and application much faster.

---

2. Create Your Hedge Map (Required for BN11 & BN7)

Every application must include a map showing the hedge line.It doesn’t need to be professional — just clear.

Your map must show:

• The field parcel number

• The exact hedge route (a drawn line)

• Start and end points

• Length in metres

• Whether it’s BN11 or BN7

• Any relevant notes (steep banks, streams, access issues)
  

Acceptable types of maps:

✔ MAGIC Map print-out ✔ Rural Payments Service map ✔ A clear hand-drawn farm map (photo upload accepted)

Tip: Keep a photo of your marked-up map — you’ll also need it when claiming payment after planting.

---

3. Log In to the Rural Payments Service (RPA)

Before you submit the application:

✔ Log in to your Rural Payments Service account ✔ Check your business details ✔ Make sure your land parcels are accurately mapped ✔ Add an agent or adviser if needed ✔ Update contact details so you don’t miss RPA emails

Incorrect land codes are one of the most common causes of delays.

---

4. Gather Your Required Evidence

For BN11 and BN7, it’s helpful to prepare:

For BN11 – New Hedge Planting

• A site photo of the proposed hedge line

• Your annotated map

For BN7 – Gapping-Up

• Photos showing the existing hedge and gaps

• Your annotated map

You may also need:

• Landowner permission (if renting)

• Any consents required for SSSI, Scheduled Monuments, or protected sites

• Quotes (sometimes requested by advisers)
  

This preparation makes the application quick once the window opens.

---

5. Submit Your Application

(When the Countryside Stewardship Capital Grants 2026 window opens – usually spring)

Once applications open:

1. Log in to the Rural Payments Service

2. Choose “Capital Grants”

3. Select your items:

   • BN11 — New Hedge Planting

   • BN7 — Hedgerow Gapping-Up

4. Enter the exact length of each section

5. Upload your map

6. Check totals and confirm

7. Submit your application
   

You’ll receive confirmation from the RPA when your application is received and when it’s approved.

---

6. Order Your Plants After Approval

Once approved, you can order your planting stock.

Bowhayes Trees supplies:

• CS-compliant native hedge packs

• Species mixes that meet BN11 rules (5+ species, max 70% hawthorn)

• BN7 gap-fill species matches

• Hedgerow trees (HRW3-compatible)

• Guards, stakes and planting accessories
  

Ordering early ensures you receive your plants in your preferred window (Nov–March).

---

7. Plant During the Correct Season (Nov–March)

After your application is approved and plants arrive:

✔ Plant in the winter season

✔ Use a double-staggered row

✔ 5–7 plants per metre

✔ Native-only mix

✔ Keep evidence as you go (photos & invoices)

You’ll use this evidence later for your RPA claim.

If you’re new to hedge planting, see our full “How to Plant a Countryside Stewardship Hedge” guide (coming next).

---

8. Submit Your Claim After Planting

To receive your payment:

1. Log in to Rural Payments

2. Upload photos showing the hedge planted

3. Upload your Bowhayes Trees invoice

4. Submit your claim before the deadline
   

Most BN11 and BN7 claims are processed quickly when evidence is clear.

---

⭐ Simple BN11/BN7 Application Checklist

Before Applying

✔ Measure hedge length ✔ Create your map ✔ Check parcel data ✔ Take site photos ✔ Confirm BN11 or BN7

During Application

✔ Select correct item ✔ Enter lengths carefully ✔ Upload map ✔ Submit online

After Approval

✔ Order hedging plants ✔ Plant between Nov–March ✔ Keep evidence for claims

---

🌱 Final Thoughts

Applying for BN11 or BN7 doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear map, the right hedge measurements and a quick online submission, the process is surprisingly straightforward — and the funding can make a real difference to your winter planting plans.

If you're preparing your application, Bowhayes Trees can help with:

• Native hedge packs designed for BN11 & BN7

• Hedgerow trees and accessories

• CS-compliant species mixes

• Friendly, practical advice for farmers
  

Ready to plant? Explore our hedge packs or move on to the next guide: 👉 How to Plant a Countryside Stewardship Hedge (BN11 & BN7 Planting Guide)