Hedges and the law

Communicate with your neighbours

In order to avoid problems, we recommend that you discuss your hedge plans with your neighbours beforehand. If they agree, it is useful to confirm the agreement in writing and sign it. If your neighbours agree, you can plant the hedge on the plot boundary, but half the hedge does then automatically become the property of the neighbours, even if they haven’t contributed to the cost. You won’t have any control over how they manage their side, so even if your current neighbours look after it properly, will they always live there?

Another solution

One solution is to plant a hedge on your own land. That way, you’ll be able to maintain both sides of the hedge from your own land.

Know the law

It is also a good idea to take account of the possible toxicity of plants growing on or along the boundary. The local council can demand that hedges are not higher or deeper than a certain volume for reasons of road safety. If the roots of your hedges affect the public highway (lifting paving stones, blocking drains) you are liable for any consequences.