Complaints to councils about overgrown gardens and hedges have surged, with new figures showing a 13% rise last year. Fresh Freedom of Information data reveals that disputes concerning hedges, overgrown gardens and neglected outdoor areas jumped, leaving Brits fed up with the eyesore.
Research commissioned by garden and outdoor living specialists Vonhaus demonstrates that nine councils across England provided comparable annual statistics, showing garden-related complaints rising from 521 in 2024 to 591 the following year. Bristol alone logged 425 complaints between January 2024 and April 2026, with 424 relating to overgrown and neglected gardens.
Common Garden Pitfalls
Garden boundaries have become one of the most frequent flashpoints for neighbour disputes, with unkempt gardens being the primary culprit. What might begin as an untidy hedge can quickly escalate into a serious row over property rights and boundaries.
However, there are several pitfalls you can sidestep to avoid inadvertently annoying your neighbours, and it largely boils down to straightforward garden upkeep. Badly maintained garden borders, particularly those directly separating your property from your neighbours', are the crucial zones to monitor.
This involves maintaining hedges that grow excessively tall and block sunlight from reaching neighbouring areas. Additionally, shrubs or climbers may push through fences, while tree branches could overhang into adjacent gardens. Also, plants such as brambles, ivy or bamboo might spread beyond boundary lines. While some species prove more challenging to manage, it's advisable to monitor them regularly to prevent encroachment into others' spaces.
Expert Advice on Maintenance
Laura Bradbury, Head of Ecommerce at Vonhaus, says: "Gardens are there to be enjoyed, and a little regular maintenance can help keep them pleasant for both homeowners and their neighbours."
"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 Rights and Responsibilities
If your neighbour's garden has started to spill over into your own property, there are steps you can take, though certain important factors must be kept in mind. Under UK common law, homeowners generally possess the right to trim back vegetation that extends across their boundary, but solely up to that dividing line.
The moment you venture beyond that border without consent, you risk trespassing on their land, making it crucial to bear several important points in mind. Technically, any trimmings are considered the property of the plant's owner and ought to be returned to them, even if they choose to refuse. Additionally, you must ensure you don't step foot in their garden to undertake any pruning without obtaining their consent first.
When it comes to trees, they're frequently safeguarded by local planning rules, meaning you'll need to check the relevant regulations before causing any harm to them.
