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Planning - high hedges

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 local authorities the power to require owners and occupiers of domestic properties with high hedges to reduce the height of those hedges where the height of it is adversely affecting a neighbour's reasonable enjoyment of their property by forming a barrier to light and access.
  • It only applies to complainants in domestic properties, no provision for complaints from commercial occupiers, however, residents can complain about hedges in commercial properties.
  • The Local Authority has 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.

Information on Planning - high hedges

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Planning, Development & Building Control

Tel: 01702 215004

council@southend.gov.uk

Useful Websites - High Hedges