High hedges

If you have an issue with a neighbour’s high hedge it is best to try and resolve the matter directly and amicably with your neighbour in the first instance.

If you are unable to resolve the issue directly, you may wish to consider using a mediator. Recommendations and guidance for mediation services can be found on GOV.UK – A guide to civil mediation.

If all reasonable efforts fail you can make a formal complaint, under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, through our Tree and Landscape Team.

Before making a formal complaint please be aware:

The law only applies to evergreen or semi-evergreen hedges more than 2 metres high, consisting of 2 or more trees and growing on land owned or occupied by someone else
We can only deal with a complaint if the person affected has taken steps to settle the dispute themselves before making a formal complaint to the council. There is a requirement to provide evidence of at least 2 written approaches over a substantial period of time (eg. 8 to 12 weeks between letters)
You will have to pay a fee to the council to have a formal complaint considered. This will normally be non-refundable whether your complaint is upheld or not. The fee payable is £550 for an initial complaint and £220 for repeat complaints

If the complaint is valid the council will assess the points, and decide whether they are sufficient to warrant a reduction in height of the hedge.

GOV.UK – High hedges: complaining to the council