Can I cut overhanging branches from my Neighbours tree?

Branches. Can I cut off overhanging branches? Yes, provided it is done without trespassing onto the other person's property. It is also permissible to climb into the tree to undertake the work, again so long as it does not require going into the neighbour's garden/land.

What are my rights if a Neighbour's tree overhangs my garden?

Trees overhanging your property

You have the right to prune overhanging tree branches back to the boundary line of your property, even if you don't own the tree.

Whose responsibility is it to cut an overhanging tree?

Your neighbour can cut any branches that are overhanging into their garden as long as they only remove the bits on their side of the boundary. If they want you to cut your tree or hedge just because they don't like the way it looks, it's up to you whether you do the work.

Is there a height limit for Neighbours trees?

Once you have tried to reach an amicable agreement, you can access a complaint form if: Your neighbour has at least two semi-evergreen trees or shrubs that are over two metres tall. The height of your neighbour's trees and shrubs is negatively affecting your enjoyment of your garden or home.

Is cutting Neighbours hedge criminal damage?

“The Criminal Damage Act 1971 provides that unless you have a lawful excuse, intentionally or recklessly causing damage to 'any property belonging to another' amounts to a criminal offence. That includes a hedge,” states BLB Solicitors.

Cutting Overhanging Branches

What is the 7 year boundary rule?

The rule stipulates that if a boundary, such as a fence, has been in a particular position for a continuous 7-year period and has not been contested during that time, it is generally considered the legal boundary of the properties involved.

Can my Neighbour cut my tree without asking?

If you own the tree or hedge

Your neighbour can cut any branches that are overhanging into their garden as long as they only remove the bits on their side of the boundary. If they want you to cut your tree or hedge just because they don't like the way it looks, it's up to you whether you do the work.

What rights do I have if my Neighbours trees are too high?

What are the legalities involved? As a homeowner, you are within your rights to trim any branches or roots which cross the boundary from your neighbour's land or a public road into your property – anything more than this can be considered as trespassing and may result in court action for property damage.

How do I deal with my Neighbours overhanging trees?

If the branches of a neighbour's tree start to grow over to your side, you can cut them back to the boundary point between you and your neighbour's property, as long as the tree is not under a tree preservation order. If it is, you'll need to seek further clarification.

What can I do if my Neighbours tree is blocking my light?

You should try to reach a compromise. If your neighbour owns the home you should speak to them directly but if they rent you'll need to speak to both them and their landlord. Try speaking to them first, if you feel safe and comfortable doing that. Make a note of the date and time you spoke and what you both said.

Can Neighbour throw overhanging branches back?

Once branches are cut off they should be offered back to the tree owner. If the owner doesn't want them then you will be responsible for disposing of the prunings; you can't simply throw them over the boundary into your neighbour's garden!

Who pays for removal of overhanging branches?

As the tree owner is responsible for the tree, the responsibility ultimately lies with the tree owner to foot the bill. There may be a chance to split costs, and it's always recommended that you speak to your neighbour before calling out a tree surgeon to cut back a tree that you don't own.

Can I cut a Neighbours overhanging tree UK?

You can trim branches or roots that cross into your property from a neighbour's property or a public road. 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.

Who do overhanging branches belong to?

The owner of the land on which the tree grows remains the owner of any branches, together with any fruit that may be on them – even after the branches have been removed.

Can my Neighbour lean things against my fence?

If your neighbour is leaning things on your fence without your permission, you should first try talking to them and explaining your concerns. If this does not resolve the issue, you may need to seek legal advice. In some cases, it may be necessary to take legal action to protect your property rights.

Do I have to cut my hedge on my neighbors side?

Boundary hedges between properties are in fact the responsibility of both neighbours, but the ownership depends on which side of the defined property boundary lines the hedge is growing.

Is cutting a Neighbour's tree criminal damage?

Can I cut off overhanging branches? Yes, provided it is done without trespassing onto the other person's property. It is also permissible to climb into the tree to undertake the work, again so long as it does not require going into the neighbour's garden/land.

Can I cut down a tree in my garden?

If you own your home, you don't need permission to fell a tree that's solely within your garden unless it's: subject to a Tree Preservation Order.

Do I have a right to sunlight in my garden?

It's a common misconception that a homeowner can acquire a right of light in their garden. However, the law provides no such right regarding land not built on. You may have express rights to light created by your property deeds. If so, the official copy of your title from the Land Registry will confirm that.

Can a Neighbour block your light?

Loss of light or overshadowing

If your neighbour is undertaking any type of building work, they must consider whether the development will affect your right to light. In the first instance, we would always recommend talking the issue over with your neighbour in case it can be resolved amicably.

Can a Neighbour enter my garden without permission?

Entering your neighbour's property without their permission is trespassing, and so you must obtain their consent before trying to gain access. The most sensible first step in this situation is therefore to speak to your neighbour and try to obtain their consent.

What would happen if I cut my Neighbours tree?

If you lop off any branches on your neighbour's (the tree owner) side of the fence, you are not entitled to Gain Access To Their Property to cut off some more. This is trespassing and you could be prosecuted.

Can you complain about Neighbour's trees blocking sunlight?

You should try first to agree what to do with your neighbour but if that doesn't work you might be able to apply for a High Hedge Notice from the council. The Notice requires the neighbour to cut the tree or hedge back. The council can't make orders about tree or hedge roots, only the foliage.

Can someone cut your tree without permission?

Without permission, it's an offence to cut down, uproot or wilfully destroy any trees: subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)