Can I cut my neighbour's tree in Wiltshire if it's blocking light?

Whether it is garden fences, hedges, trees or other areas, you may be wondering what the rules are.

For example, if your neighbour’s tree is blocking natural light or encroaching on your garden, can you cut it?

Here is what experts have said and all you need to know.

What side of the fence am I responsible for in the UK?

Can I cut back my neighbour’s tree if it is blocking natural light?

Richard Barker is a horticultural expert and the commercial director of LBS Horticulture.

He said: “According to The Rights Of Light Act 1959, if a property has received daylight for the last 20 years, it is entitled to continue to receive that light.

“However, this rarely implicates trees as they are slow-growing, meaning that it is difficult to pinpoint exactly when the loss of light occurred. It also only applies to natural light indoors, not light in your garden.”

Mr Barker recommends trying to resolve the issue with your neighbour by speaking to them, outlining what the problem is, how it is affecting you and what you would like them to do about it.

He added: “If the tree is part of a hedge made up of two or more trees, you may be able to apply for a High Hedge notice from the council, which will require your neighbour to cut the tree back.

You must not go into your neighbour’s garden to trim a tree (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) “You should not apply for a notice before you have attempted to resolve the problem yourself with your neighbour, as they are unlikely to accept it if you have not tried to negotiate.

“If your neighbour rents their home, you will need to speak to them and their landlord. During this conversation, you should only ask them to cut back the amount needed to allow light into your home, and if they are older, you may need to consider if they would need to hire someone to do this for them.

“If you successfully reach an agreement, ensure that this is put in writing and ask the neighbour to sign it so you have a record of this.”

Can I cut my neighbour’s tree in my garden?

Weighing in, legal landlord advice experts at First4Landlord Advice explain: “You are allowed to trim any branches or roots that cross into your side, but only back to the boundary and from your own land.

“If an evergreen or semi-evergreen hedge is over two metres and blocks reasonable enjoyment of your property, you can make a formal complaint to the council under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003.”

Amazing sunset across North Manchester this evening. Framing the tree at the bottom of our garden beautifully. #TreeClub pic.twitter.com/Q1W9FEWJ0e

— Mr P Raspberry (@sarcasmazoid) September 11, 2025

The experts add that you cannot cross the boundary or cut beyond it without permission.

They also explained how you cannot cut or damage a tree that is protected by a Tree Preservation Order or located in a conservation area without consent, as this can be a criminal offence.

Expert Chris Taylor from Chris Taylor Gardening adds: “Legally, the tree belongs to your neighbour, so any cut branches should be offered back to them.

“If they decline, you can dispose of the clippings yourself.”

Can I plant a tall tree near a neighbour’s fence?

If you are looking to plant a new tree and it is near a neighbour’s fence, experts have also explained what to do.

Plants that could damage the value of your home

DIY and fence expert Jimmy Englezos from Ronseal says: “If you’re thinking of planting a tall tree near a shared fence, it’s best to speak to your neighbours beforehand and seek permission, as it could disrupt their right to light if this impacts the light previously enjoyed in rooms of your neighbour’s home.