What is the high hedge legislation?

• The high hedge legislation is used to help resolve disputes between neighbours regarding high hedges.
• If you have a neighbour who has a high hedge you may be able to complain to the council about it.
• The council then carry out an independent assessment to decide whether the hedge needs to be reduced in height or not.
• If the hedge does need a reduction the council can issue a remedial notice requiring work to be done to the hedge.
• If your neighbour fails to carry out the required works the council can take enforcement action if necessary.

Can I make a complaint about my neighbour's hedge?

The high hedge legislation only covers certain hedges. The list below shows what the hedge must be like to be considered by the council:

• The hedge must be made up of a line of two or more trees.
• The hedge must be predominantly evergreen (it must keep its leaves all year round).
• The hedge must be at least 2m in height.

Is there anything I need to do before I can make a complaint?

• Before the council can consider a complaint you must have tried to negotiate with your neighbour.
• You should try talking to your neighbour about the hedge first.
• If this is not successful try writing to your neighbour.
• The council accept copies of written letters as proof of negotiation.
• The booklet 'Over the garden hedge' provides tips for negotiations:
  • Over the garden hedge
• If negotiations do not work you could think about making a formal complaint to the council.

How do I make a complaint?

Download and fill in a complaint form:

• High hedges complaint pack

Alternatively, contact the Tree Section:

• Trees contacts

Will it cost me anything to make a complaint?

Yes, Kirklees Council charge £150 for this service.

I am not sure my hedge falls within the legislation, will the council come and look at if for me anyway?

No, the council can only carry out site visits when a formal complaint is made.

I have a tall evergreen hedge but I do not want to cut it. What can I do?

• You should explain to your neighbour why you do not want to cut the hedge - for example it may be due to privacy issues, cost, or birds may be nesting in the hedge.
• You should try and reach an agreement with your neighbour about the hedge. This may mean cutting the hedge in a few months when you have the money, or reaching a compromise about a suitable height for the hedge.
• If you do reach an agreement it is a good idea for both parties to have a copy of the agreement to avoid people going back on their word.
• If it is not possible to reach an agreement it is likely your neighbour will make a complaint to the council if the hedge falls within the high hedge legislation.
• You will be given a chance to provide the council with your views regarding the complaint and why you want to keep the hedge at the current height.
• The council will then decide whether the hedge needs cutting.

Where can I find out more about the high hedge legislation?

• The High Hedges (Appeals) (England) Regulations 2005

Alternatively please contact the Tree Section who will be able to provide you with further advice.

Trees contacts

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), trees in conservation areas and tree work applications

Report trees causing an obstruction on pavements and footpaths, or obscuring street lighting

• Report Overhanging vegetation and/or weeds

Find out who owns trees

• Land ownership

Trees owned by the council