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High Hedges and Hedgerows
If you have an issue with a neighbours’ hedge and have not been able to solve it amicably, you can contact us to investigate the matter. We can investigate hedges that are:
- over 2 metres in height
- forming a line of at least 2 trees or shrubs
- obstructing light
It is important to note that the legislation states:
- That it is not required that all hedges are cut down to a height of 2 metres.
- You do not have to get permission to grow a hedge above 2 metres.
- When a hedge grows over 2 metres we do not automatically take action, unless a justifiable complaint is made.
- If you file a complaint, it does not follow automatically that we will order your neighbour to reduce the height of their hedge. We have to weigh up all the issues and consider each case on its merits.
- The legislation does not cover single or deciduous trees.
- We cannot require the hedge to be removed.
- The legislation does not guarantee access to uninterrupted light.
- There is no provision to serve an Anti-social Behaviour Order (ASBO) in respect of high hedge complaints.
Making a complaint about high hedges
In accordance with the legislation, you must try to resolve issues regarding neighbours high hedges yourself directly with the hedge owner.
You must try to settle a dispute about a high hedge informally before the council can intervene. There are useful government guides online that provide essential detail to help you, such as the Over the garden hedge page. This process MUST be attempted before you can make a complaint to Melton Borough Council.
Please note that you should keep a record of all correspondence with your neighbour to assist in building a case should you decide to involve the local authority.
If this is not successful or you have exhausted all other avenues you may make a formal complaint to us.
How to make a complaint
If you wish to make a high hedge complaint please complete the high hedge complaint using the button below.
How the process works
We will not mediate or negotiate between you and the hedge owner but will adjudicate on whether the hedge is adversely affecting your reasonable enjoyment of your property. In doing so, we take into account all relevant factors and strike a balance between the competing interests of yourself and the hedge owner, as well as the interests of the wider community.
If we consider the circumstances justify it, we will issue a formal notice to the hedge owner which will set out what they must do to the hedge to remedy the problem, and when by.
Failure to carry out the works required is an offence which, on prosecution, could lead to a fine of up to £1000.
Fees
The current cost of a complaint is £450.00.