The Antisocial Behaviour Act 2003 allows us to adjudicate neighbour disputes over high hedges.

You can make a complaint about a neighbour's high hedge(s), by completing the online enquiry form.

Make a complaint about a high hedge

There are grounds for complaint if the hedge is so tall that it:

  • detracts from the enjoyment of your home or garden
  • obstructs light or views

What is a high hedge

A hedge is deemed as high if:

  • the hedge is growing on land owned by someone else
  • the hedge is more than 2 metres tall
  • the hedge is made up of 2 or more trees or shrubs
  • the hedge is capable of obstructing light or views

When to complain 

You should not complain straight to us. You must first attempt to solve the problem with your neighbour. If that doesn't solve the problem, then you can make a complaint.

Guidance on how to approach your neighbour can be found on GOV.UK

How to complain

When you make your complaint, you'll need to:

  • provide evidence of negotiations with your neighbours
  • pay a fee for us to consider your complaint (this is non-refundable)

What we will do

We will consider your complaint and make sure it has met all legal tests. If we decide to take your complaint further, we will:

  • ask your neighbour to set out their case
  • send an officer out to look at the problem
  • if the officer decides action is needed they will present your neighbour with a formal notice
  • this will require them to cut the hedge to a reasonable size, and keep the hedge trimmed to this size in the future

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