A hedge is a line of two or more evergreen/semi-evergreen trees or shrubs.

Resolving the issue yourself

If your neighbours' hedge is causing you an issue, the best thing to do is talk to them about it. You could also write to them.

Gov.UK provides advice on talking things through with your neighbour.

What we cannot do

We cannot:

  • enforce a legal limit for hedge height (because there isn't one).
  • take automatic action against any hedge over two metres in height.
  • issue a Remedial Notice for every complaint.
  • issue Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) about hedges.
  • take action against deciduous trees (that shed their leaves in the autumn)
  • take action against single evergreen trees/bushes.
  • order the complete removal of a hedge.
  • guarantee access to uninterrupted light.

What we can do

If we are able to take action, we will send your neighbour a Remedial Notice, which will say:

  • what they must do
  • when they must do it by

Make a Formal Complaint

Appeal a High Hedges decision

You can appeal a High Hedges decision if:

  • you are the hedge owner and don’t agree with the Remedial Notice
  • you are the complainant and don’t feel that the notice goes far enough to solve the problem.

You must make an appeal within 28 days of the Council issuing a Remedial Notice.

High hedge appeals: procedure guidance

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