What is the legal height of a hedge and how do I complain?

Because of this, there will be many out there wondering what the law around hedges is and if the ones near them are up to code.

With that said, here is everything you need to know about hedge heights in the UK.

What is the legal height of a hedge between neighbours in the UK?

According to the UK Government website, current legislation does not set out how tall a hedge can be.

Instead, councils need to determine if the height of one is having an adverse impact on a neighbour's enjoyment of their property.

Similarly, in Scotland and Wales, there is no maximum height.

Can I force my neighbour to cut their hedge?

A local authority can look at complaints relating to a hedge, such as if it's growing on land owned or occupied by someone else or if it's more than two metres tall, among other issues.

Those wanting to complain should contact their local authority, which can be found on the UK Government website.

However, a council can also reject a complaint if it believes the complainant hasn't taken every reasonable step to try and settle the dispute with their neighbour.

In Scotland, hedges over two metres (above ground level) are covered under the High Hedge Act 2013, which allows neighbours to lodge complaints, according to the Scottish Government website.

Recommended Reading: 

• What to do if your neighbour's dog won't stop barking
• Find out if it is criminal damage to cut a neighbour's hedge in the UK
• Can my neighbour cut my tree? Find out when they need permission from you

• What is the legal height of a garden fence between neighbours in the UK?

This acts as a last resort and is only meant for those who cannot resolve the dispute with their neighbour.

Those wishing to apply for a high hedge notice to get the issue dealt with in Scotland should also contact their local authority.

In Wales, complaints around high hedges are covered under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 and the High Hedges (Appeals) (Wales) Regulations 2004.