From the height of your hedge to cutting your neighbour’s tree is it overhands, there are rules in place that all homeowners and tenants need to be aware of
09:28, 03 Mar 2026Updated 09:43, 03 Mar 2026
There are rules you need to stick to(Image: Organic Media via Getty Images)
As gardeners venture outdoors this spring, many remain oblivious to obscure gardening regulations that could land them with fines reaching £26,000. Yell is encouraging homeowners to familiarise themselves with these rules immediately to sidestep potentially eye-watering penalties totalling as much as £26,000.
Whether it’s the height of your hedge or trimming your neighbour’s overhanging tree, there are regulations every homeowner and tenant must understand.
Hedge height
Whilst hedges serve brilliantly for maintaining privacy and boosting your garden’s aesthetic appeal, they frequently block sunlight and become bothersome during summer. Under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, should your hedge surpass two metres in height and interfere with your neighbours’ light or outlook, they’re entitled to lodge a complaint with the local authority.
Should the hedge be classified as a nuisance, you’ll be obliged to cut it back. Failure to comply can result in fines reaching £1,000.
If you’re experiencing problems with a neighbour’s hedge, you should initially attempt to resolve the matter directly by requesting they trim the hedge or trees. The council will likely reject your application for a High Hedge Notice unless you’ve made genuine efforts to address it with your neighbour beforehand.
Hedges can be a bone of contention between neighbours(Image: Westend61 via Getty Images)
Trimming a neighbour’s tree when it encroaches into your garden
Similar to hedges, trees frequently obstruct sunlight and occasionally encroach onto your land. You’re entitled to prune branches extending over your boundary, but strictly up to the dividing line.
Should overhanging branches intrude on your side of the fence or wall, you’re permitted to trim them back, though it’s advisable to inform your neighbour and return the severed branches to them.
Specific trees benefit from protection under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) to safeguard their environmental and visual significance. Before carrying out any work, including felling or topping, it’s prudent to verify whether they’re covered by a TPO.
Each month, roughly 1,900 Britons search for the phrase “tree preservation order.”
Conducting unauthorised work on a protected tree can attract fines reaching £20,000. In particularly serious instances, unlimited penalties may be imposed.
Garden bonfires
While during the summer it might seem appealing to arrange a modest campfire or garden bonfire, these must not create a nuisance for neighbouring properties. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 tackles concerns surrounding smoke-related disturbances.
Frequent bonfires or those generating excessive amounts of smoke can be deemed a statutory nuisance. Should grievances be lodged and an abatement notice served, non-compliance could trigger fines up to £5,000 for residential properties and £20,000 for commercial premises.
Make sure you know the rules first(Image: nicolamargaret via Getty Images)
Garden fence maintenance
Ownership of garden fences typically hinges on property deeds or neighbourly agreements. It’s vital to scrutinise your property paperwork or have a chat with your neighbour to establish who’s accountable for fence upkeep.
Failing to fulfil these duties generally won’t land you with fines, but sorting out any fence-related disagreements amicably can head off potential legal wrangles.
Your own boundary: You’re free to use a barrier or fence on your land as you see fit, as long as it’s safe. Your neighbour can’t use it without getting your say-so first. For instance, they can’t attach climbing plants to your fence without asking permission.
Shared fences: When a fence belongs to both parties, either neighbour can make use of it – such as for supporting plants – provided it doesn’t jeopardise safety.
Upkeep obligations: You’re under no obligation to fix your fence unless your property deeds say otherwise. That said, if your fence causes injury or damages property, you could face liability. Maintaining your boundary in decent nick is therefore sensible to sidestep any potential legal headaches.
The complete potential penalties
Should you cop the maximum fines for all of these offences, the total could hit a staggering £26,000. Here’s how it breaks down:
Hedge height regulations: £1,000Tree Preservation Orders: £20,000Bonfires and smoke nuisance: £5,000 (domestic properties)
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