The UK government introduced the High Hedges legislation in 2005 to provide a legal framework for resolving disputes between neighbours over high hedges. This legislation gives local authorities the power to intervene in cases where high hedges are causing a nuisance to neighbouring properties. In this blog post, we will discuss how the High Hedges legislation is implemented in the UK.
What is a high hedge?
According to the High Hedges legislation, a high hedge is defined as a line of two or more evergreen or semi-evergreen trees or shrubs that are over two meters in height, and block out light to neighbouring properties. Hedges that are made up of deciduous trees, or those that do not significantly block out light, are not covered by the legislation.
What are the rules governing high hedges?
The High Hedges legislation provides a framework for resolving disputes over high hedges, and local authorities are responsible for enforcing these rules. The legislation sets out a series of steps that must be followed when making a complaint about a high hedge.
Step 1: Contact your local authority
The first step is to contact your local authority and make a formal complaint about the high hedge. You will need to provide details of the hedge, including its height, location, and how it is causing a nuisance. Your local authority will then investigate the complaint and determine whether the hedge meets the criteria set out in the legislation.
Step 2: Mediation
If the local authority determines that the hedge meets the criteria, they will offer mediation services to try to resolve the dispute between the two parties. Mediation is a voluntary process, and both parties must agree to participate. The mediator will work with both parties to find a mutually acceptable solution.
Step 3: Formal intervention
If mediation is not successful, the local authority can take formal action to resolve the dispute. This may involve issuing a notice to the hedge owner, requiring them to reduce the height of the hedge. The notice will set out a deadline for the work to be completed and may include penalties if the work is not carried out within the specified timeframe.
Step 4: Appeals
If either party is unhappy with the decision made by the local authority, they can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. The Inspectorate will review the case and make a final decision.
Conclusion
The High Hedges legislation provides a framework for resolving disputes between neighbours over high hedges. The legislation sets out a series of steps that must be followed when making a complaint, and local authorities are responsible for enforcing the rules. While the legislation is designed to be a last resort, it provides an effective means of resolving disputes that cannot be resolved through informal means. If you have a problem with a high hedge, the first step is to contact your local authority and make a formal complaint.
