If you're having a dispute with a neighbour about the height of a hedge, we may be able to help.

Having a high hedge isn't an offence, but if it can be proven that it's a nuisance because it affects the reasonable enjoyment of your property, we can take action.

Before asking us to get involved

You should try to sort the dispute out between yourself and neighbour first, but if you can't resolve it you can ask us to look into it.

You should keep a record of the actions you've taken, as we may refuse to intervene if we don't think you've done everything you reasonably could have done to settle the dispute.

How to complain about a high hedge

If you've tried to resolve the dispute but can't reach an agreement, you can ask us to look into it by filling in our high hedge complaints form. There's a charge of £300 for us to investigate a high hedge complaint.

In the form you'll need to explain the problems you experience in your home and garden because of the height of the hedge.

What happens next

When we've received your form we'll look at the evidence and actions you've taken to sort the problem out. We'll also arrange to come and look at the hedge. 

If we decide that formal action is required, we'll serve a notice to your neighbour that sets out what they must do to the hedge and when they must do it by.

Appeals

If you disagree with our decision, you can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate within 28 days of the date on the decision letter.

More information

For more information, see the government's guide about complaining about high hedges to the council.