High hedges

Fast-growing evergreens such as leylandii can shoot up within a few years and block the light to your kitchen or garden. Your neighbour may simply not notice the effect from their side, so a friendly, specific conversation usually works better than a complaint. The pack includes editable example messages and a log for events and contacts.

What are the rules?

In England and Wales, you can generally complain to your local council about a high hedge under Part 8 of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, but only after trying to resolve it with your neighbour, and councils usually charge a fee. The council weighs up both sides: it can require work to the hedge but cannot order its removal. You can usually trim overhanging branches up to the boundary. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own procedures, so check your council's guidance.

How to approach it

1. Choose a calm moment and describe how the hedge affects your light or garden, rather than what your neighbour should have done.

2. Suggest one practical idea, such as an agreed height or a regular trim, and offer to help with the work or the cost.

3. Agree a time outside the main bird nesting season and write down who does what and by when.

4. If nothing changes, keep a dated log and consider community mediation before the council's procedure.

Tips for your message

Keep your message short, friendly and focused on one request, and leave room for your neighbour's wish for privacy. For example: "Could we have a look at it together and agree a height that works for both of us?" One polite reminder later tends to work better than several quick messages.

This is general information, not personal legal advice.