Doncaster Council

• What is the maximum height that my neighbour can grow trees in his/her garden?
• The branches of my neighbour's trees overhang my garden. Can I remove them?
• I want to cut an existing hedge, which may have nesting birds. When can I do this?
• Am I allowed to cut back a protected tree?

What is the maximum height that my neighbour can grow trees in his/her garden?

In general, there is no specific limit to the height that a tree is allowed to grow. Where evergreen trees or shrubs are grown as a hedge, which is more than 2m in height, the High Hedges Act may apply. An information pack, 'What to do if your neighbours hedge becomes a problem' is available from Neighbourhoods, Communities and Children's Services (Tel 01302 736000). It is recommended that you follow the advice in the information pack and talk to your neighbour about the problem. This information is also available on the High Hedges - what to do page.  

Further information can be found on the Communities and Local Government website.

The Council should only be involved as a last resort.

The branches of my neighbour's trees overhang my garden. Can I remove them?

If the tree is protected (i.e. it is in a Conservation Area or is subject to a Tree Protection Order) you should contact the Tree and Hedgerow Section of Planning (Tel 01302 734949) before any works are carried out to check what you are able to do. If the tree is not protected you have the right to remove the offending branches but only to the line of your boundary and no further. Any removed branches are the property of your neighbour and should be offered back to your neighbour. It is not recommended that they are simply 'thrown over the hedge' as this may antagonise your neighbour. It is always best to discuss works with your neighbour prior to starting work.

I want to cut an existing hedge, which may have nesting birds. When can I do this?

It is against the law to disturb nesting birds. You are advised to avoid carrying out the works between 1st March and 31st September. If you feel that the work must be done during the nesting season you are advised to employ an ecologist who will survey the hedge and advise.

Am I allowed to cut back a protected tree?

In general, it is an offence to cut down, top, lop, wilfully damage or destroy or uproot a protected tree without the consent of the local planning authority. The section is responsible for making and managing tree preservation orders within the Borough and for administering applications to carry out works on all protected trees. The section also offers a free advice service for owners or people affected by protected trees.Click the following Link for more information regarding Tree Preservation orders.

Please Note: Environmental Planning is not responsible for maintaining trees on Council owned land or High Hedges cases - for these areas please contact 01302 736000