High Hedges Legislation
The High Hedges Legislation forms part of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, (Part 8) High Hedges (Appeals) (England) Regulations 2005 (SI2005/711) and it came into force on the 1st June 2005.
- it gives us the power to tell owners and occupiers of domestic properties with high hedges to reduce the height of those hedges, if height of it is adversely affecting a neighbour. The hedges would have to affect the neighbours reasonable enjoyment of their property by forming a barrier to light and access
- it only applies to complainants in domestic properties, not commercial occupiers. But residents can complain about hedges in commercial properties
- we have to decide whether the height is adversely affecting the neighbour
- it can only require reduction in height, not complete removal
- the owner or occupier of the property can be served/made to take action if it is considered necessary