A gardening expert has explained the rules around trimming a neighbour’s hedge if it overhangs your garden, as new data reveals a rise in hedge-related complaints.
Rise in complaints
Council complaints over hedges, overgrown gardens and neglected outdoor spaces rose by 13 per cent last year, according to new Freedom of Information data. Figures obtained by garden specialists Vonhaus show that nine English councils recorded 591 garden-related complaints in 2025, up from 521 in 2024. Another 161 complaints had already been recorded by the end of April 2026.
The disputes involve high hedges between neighbouring properties, overgrown or neglected gardens, and vegetation affecting nearby homes. Across the UK, Stockport saw high-hedge complaints rise by 40 per cent, while Wirral recorded a 60 per cent increase.
Expert advice
“Gardens are there to be enjoyed, and a little regular maintenance can help keep them pleasant for both homeowners and their neighbours,” explains Laura Bradbury at Vonhaus. “Trimming hedges little and often, cutting back plants before they spread across boundaries and clearing away garden waste as you work can prevent overgrowth from becoming a much bigger job later. It can also help hedges stay neat and healthy without needing a severe cutback.”
“If a hedge sits along a shared boundary, it is always helpful to have a quick conversation before carrying out any work. Agreeing a suitable height and when it will be trimmed makes ongoing maintenance much easier and helps keep things positive between neighbours.”
Legal rules
According to Gov.uk, you must try to settle a dispute about a high hedge informally before the council can intervene. Ask your council for a complaint form if the hedge is all of these: 2 or more mostly evergreen or semi-evergreen trees or shrubs, over 2 metres tall, and affecting your enjoyment of your home or garden because it’s too tall.
“You can trim branches or roots that cross into your property from a neighbour’s property or a public road,” Gov.uk explains. “You can only trim up to the property boundary. If you do more than this, your neighbour could take you to court for damaging their property. If you live in a conservation area, or the trees in the hedge are protected by a ‘tree preservation order’, you might need your council’s permission to trim them. Your neighbour is responsible for maintaining their hedges so they do not, for example, damage your property or grow too high. If they do damage your property, your neighbour may be liable.”
