Garden laws around fences, hedges and boundaries in the UK Understanding the UK laws surrounding your garden and boundaries can save you a lot of hassle (and potentially money). Whether you’re looking to install a new fence or wondering about the legality of trimming your neighbour’s annoying overhanging branches, we will walk you through the basics. UK Garden Laws: Fences and Boundaries Before installing a fence it’s important to determine the exact location of your property boundary. This information is available from your property’s title deeds or can be found through a land registry. If you’re still unsure, it’s best to check with your neighbour first. So do you need permission? In short, fences up to 2 meters high can be installed without planning permission. However, if the fence is going to border a road, the maximum height changes to 1 meter. It’s crucial to ensure that no matter where it’s going, the fence is on your side of the boundary line. To keep your fencing in good condition, consider tools like a lawn strimmer and electric lawn mower that can be used to tidy up grass and weeds near the base of your fence. This will massively help with preventing overgrowth that could weaken the structure over time or cause disputes with your neighbours. Hedges: Your Rights and Responsibilities Hedges are another common feature in UK gardens that can sometimes lead to issues if not properly taken care of. According to UK law, if a hedge is on your side of the boundary, you’re responsible for maintaining it. However, if the hedge belongs to your neighbour, you can only trim overhanging branches on your side. The High Hedges Act (part of the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003) addresses disputes related to high hedges, typically those over 2 meters tall. If a hedge on your neighbour’s property is blocking light or impacting your garden, you can file a formal complaint with your local council. For hedge trimming, tools like pruning shears or a chainsaw are essential. A petrol or electric chainsaw can make quick work of larger branches, while pruning shears are ideal for fine trimming. Trees and Overhanging Branches: What the Law Says When it comes to trees, things tend to get a little tricky. You’re allowed to trim branches that overhang into your garden, but only up to the boundary line. It’s illegal to cut beyond the boundary or to damage the tree itself. If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), you’ll need permission from your local council before undertaking any sort of pruning or trimming. Keeping trees well-maintained is important not only for the health of the tree but also for safety. Overgrown trees can become hazardous during storms or windy conditions. A petrol chainsaw is a powerful tool to have on hand for larger pruning jobs, while an electric chainsaw can handle smaller branches more efficiently. To conclude… Keeping your garden’s boundaries—whether it be fences, hedges, or trees—within the legal limits not only avoids potential disputes but also helps maintain your garden’s beauty. By investing in the right tools, such as lawn mowers, strimmers, and chainsaws, you can ensure that your garden stays neat, tidy, and in compliance with UK laws.
