19/09/2026
We know that some residents have concerns about high hedges in the Ward. This might help.
🌳 High Hedges: A Simple Guide for Residents
A friendly, easy-to-read guide explaining what high hedges are, how they’re dealt with, and what steps you can take if a hedge is affecting your home.
🌿 What Is a High Hedge?
A hedge is considered a high hedge if it meets all of the following:
- Evergreen or semi‑evergreen (stays green all year)
- Made up of two or more trees or shrubs
- Over 2 metres tall
- Causing a significant loss of light or reasonable enjoyment of your home or garden
If the hedge doesn’t meet these tests, the council cannot use high‑hedge powers.
🤝 Step 1 — Try to Resolve It Informally
Most hedge issues are solved through a simple conversation. Before the council can act, you must show you’ve tried:
- Talking to your neighbour
- Sending a polite letter
- Using mediation services
These steps are required by law before a formal complaint can be made.
📝 Step 2 — Making a Formal Complaint
If informal attempts don’t work, you can submit a high‑hedge complaint to the council.
You’ll need:
- Evidence of attempts to resolve the issue
- Photos of the hedge
- A description of how it affects your home
- The required fee (set by the council)
The council will then assess the hedge using national guidance.
🏛️ Step 3 — What the Council Does
The council acts as an independent decision‑maker. They may:
- Review your complaint
- Visit the site
- Measure the hedge and assess light loss
- Decide whether action is justified
If action is needed, the council issues a Remedial Notice telling the hedge owner what must be done. This notice is legally enforceable.
📬 Step 4 — Appeals
Both you and the hedge owner can appeal the council’s decision to the Planning Inspectorate. Appeals are free and handled independently.
🚫 What the Council Cannot Do
- Remove a hedge entirely
- Act on single trees
- Deal with deciduous hedges (those that lose leaves)
- Get involved before informal steps have been tried
- Take sides in neighbour disputes
💡 Quick Tips for Residents
- Keep communication friendly and factual
- Keep copies of letters, emails, and photos
- Don’t trim a hedge that isn’t yours
Mediation is a good option if conversations feel difficult
📣 Need Help?
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, or you need guidance on next steps, contact your local council’s planning or environmental services team.
This guide is designed to help residents understand the process clearly and calmly, and to encourage positive, neighbourly solutions wherever possible.
