High Hedges – Complaints & Disputes

High Hedge complaints and disputes are dealt with through the High Hedges Bill (2005), part 8 of the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003. This provides individuals with a legal avenue for complaint through their local authority provided that you can demonstrate that you have attempted to resolve your high hedge dispute first. The test under the legislation is: 'the hedge is adversely affecting the complainant's reasonable enjoyment of their property'

Where all attempts to resolve the dispute have failed, a complainant can request the council to investigate. The local authority will not take on the role of mediator or enter into negotiation between parties but will appoint an officer to adjudicate in the dispute. The council may issue a formal notice requiring certain remedial action to be taken. The councils notice for remedial action can be appealed by the applicant and owner of the hedge.

Failure to comply with the action detailed within the formal notice is an offence and fines of up to £1000 may result following successful prosecution.

MWA acts for individuals in disputes over a high hedge offering the following services:

Mediation between parties
Assessment of action heights
Recommendations for appropriate remedial works
Appeals against the council’s formal notice

Call or email us for further advice.