School is out, summer is underway and trees are blooming with fruits. Have you ever wondered whether picking fruits from a tree in a public place should be considered stealing?

On my way back from my morning tennis session, I was attracted to the promised land by the beautiful smell of flowers in the area. As I got closer, I noticed that the street was lined up with fruits from overhanging branches of private properties. Needless to say that my morning snack consisted of a big bowl of pears, plums and crab apples. I even have a selection of cooking apples ready for my Sunday apple crumble recipe. Reflecting back on my actions, I am now wondering whether I need to hand myself in at the local police station or not.

According to the Theft Act of 1968, for England and Wales, “A person who picks mushrooms growing wild on any land, or who picks flowers, fruit or foliage from a plant growing wild on any land, does not (although not in possession of the land) steal what he picks, unless he does it for reward or for sale or other commercial purpose.” That settles it then, you would think. However, there are some caveats you should be aware of. Continue reading →