Trimming Overhanging Branches and Roots
You can trim branches or roots that cross into your property up to the boundary. You must tell your neighbour if a tree surgeon needs to go on their land. If they want you to cut your tree just because they don’t like it, it’s up to you. You cannot make your neighbour cut back overhanging branches or fallen leaves. However, if these cause damage, you can sue for repair costs.
In trimming back branches or roots, you must not trespass onto your neighbour’s land, cause unnecessary damage, poison roots, or spray the tree with herbicide. Report to the council if you think your neighbour’s tree might fall, and they might ask the owner to make it safe.
Legal Height and Hedge Management
There is no height limit for a single hedge tree, but legislation restricts evergreen hedge height. If trees limit a neighbour’s usage or enjoyment, it could be a council High Hedge issue. Share your concern in writing and suggest a health assessment. Consider discussing issues with your neighbour first. If they refuse to cooperate, write to the council for a High Hedge Notice ordering your neighbour to cut back, when there must be two trees over two meters or a single tree blocking light.
The legal height of hedges between neighbours in the UK is typically over 2 metres when it unreasonably interferes with the enjoyment of a property. The Council may issue a notice if justified. Without a justifiable complaint, the local authority does not automatically take action.
Resolving Disputes
The best way to resolve problems with trees or hedges is to talk to your neighbours and come to an agreement. If this fails, arbitration or litigation may be required. Professional legal advice should be sought for complex issues relating to trees and the law. Boundary hedges are the responsibility of both neighbours, but ownership depends on which side the hedge is growing. Leylandii trees should not exceed 2 metres in height.