This webpage is designed to provide an overview of the High Hedge Legislation and to assist those concerned about hedges that affect the enjoyment of their homes.

Following considerable debate and consultation the Government decided, with effect from 1 June 2005, to implement Part 8 of the Antisocial Behaviour Act 2003. This gives local authorities powers to deal with complaints about high hedges.

Provided that they have tried and exhausted all other avenues for resolving the hedge disputes, people will be able to take their complaint about a neighbour’s evergreen hedge to their local authority. View our Making a Complaint webpage for more information.

Our role is not to mediate or negotiate between the complainant and the hedge owner, but to adjudicate on whether – in the words of the Act – the hedge is adversely affecting the complainant’s reasonable enjoyment of their property. In doing so, the authority must take account of all relevant factors and must strike a balance between the competing interests of the complainant and the hedge owner, as well as the interests of the wider community.

If it considers the circumstances justified, the local authority may issue a formal notice to the hedge owner which will set out what they must do to the hedge to remedy the problem, and by when. View our Processing Complaints webpage for more information.

Failure to carry out the works required by us is an offence, which on prosecution could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 or alternatively we may use our own contractors to carry out the work and recharge the owner.

Who do I talk to in the Council about High Hedges?

High Hedge matters are dealt with by the Planning Compliance/Enforcement Team. You can email the Enforcement Team or telephone 01233 330458. If they are away from their desk you may leave a message on voice mail and they will return your call as soon as possible. However before contacting this officer please make sure you have read all of the information on this website.