Home › Garden and balcony › Overhanging branches › Guide
Overhanging branches: pruning, discussion and careful agreements
Branches above your terrace, against a window or over a walkway can be a nuisance. What can you ask and what conditions apply before you start pruning yourself?
Point out the branches crossing the boundary and explain the problem. Appropriate pruning depends on the tree. A clear agreement can protect both the tree and your relationship.
This guide applies to England.
Which branches cause which problem?
Photograph the branches from your property. Describe whether they scrape a window, hang low over a path or restrict the patio. Overhanging branches, shade, leaves and roots may need different advice.
If there is an acute danger from a loose hanging heavy branch, immediately seek appropriate help from the owner or manager. Don't stand under the branch to prove how dangerous it is. A tree expert can assess the risk.
Why is careful pruning important?
The tree species, condition and desired intervention determine which approach is appropriate. Sawing away a large branch can have different consequences than light maintenance pruning. Ask an expert for advice if you need to remove a lot of wood.
Wildlife protection law also matters. Do not disturb protected birds or active nests. There is no date after which every pruning job is automatically safe or lawful; check the actual tree before work.
How do you ask for a solution?
A calm opening
“The branches over our path are so low that we have to duck underneath them. Could we ask what pruning would be suitable? If access through our garden is needed, we can agree a time.”
Make the request feasible
Point to the branches concerned and ask when the owner can review the situation. Discuss who will approach a gardener, arrange access and dispose of pruning waste. Give room for an expert alternative.
What tools and arrangements help?
Photos and a limited work description
Mark on photos which part you mean. Ask for a description of the work and the desired result. This prevents one person from thinking about light pruning and the other from thinking about removing the entire crown.
A tree expert or gardener
For substantial work, ask a qualified tree professional about tree health, safe methods and permissions. Agree who commissions the work and pays before it begins.
Access and planning
Make arrangements for passage, plant protection and cleaning. Check again for protected animals or nests just before the operation. A previously agreed date does not exempt you from wildlife protection rules.
Which rules apply in England?
You can normally trim branches that cross into your property back to the boundary. Check with the council first if a tree preservation order or conservation area may apply. If the boundary is unclear or pruning could damage the tree, get professional advice before cutting.
What if the request has no result?
Ask the neighbour to agree the extent and timing of the work. For large or hazardous branches, use a qualified tree contractor.
Sources and review date
Guide reviewed on 7 November 2026.
GOV.UK — High hedges, trees and boundaries
Before anyone starts cutting
Check the boundary, tree protection or conservation-area status, active nests, the tree’s health, permission for access and disposal of cuttings. If any point is unclear, pause and seek appropriate advice.
Keep the next step manageable
Use the free incident diary for a few representative observations, any agreement and improvements. If you need outside help, see Who can help. State what happened, what you have tried and what you are asking the recipient to do. You do not have to keep approaching the neighbour if contact feels unsafe.
Would you like to write to your neighbours?
On the situation page you can see the CalmNotes bundle, its contents and the other support options.