As much as it’s lovely to have trees in the garden, sometimes they can be a little problematic, especially if they’re located on a neighbour’s side of the fence. However, if you’re wondering what action you can take if a neighbour’s tree is hindering your property, the debate has been settled as to what you can do.
For years you may have wondered how you can handle the matter if such a problem occurs, and it turns out the answer is pretty simple. Gardening guru Michael Griffiths explained all in a recent video, and the advice is sure to help a lot of people get their gardens back in order.
While you may be wondering if it’s ever ok to cut a tree back, there’s some information you should know. It turns out, there are some rules you need to adhere to when it comes to attempting to manage a neighbour’s tree.
Michael said: “If your neighbour’s tree is overhanging your fence, what are you actually allowed to do? First of all, talk to your neighbour. They might be reasonable and sort it.
“Ultimately, everyone’s responsible for trees on their land, but that doesn’t mean they need to cut it back. Two, if they’re not interested, you can deal with it yourself, but check if it’s protected first.”
He continued: “It might be in a conservation area, or have a TPO (Tree Preservation Order) on it. Three, if it’s not protected, you can cut anything that’s overhanging your side up to the boundary.
“You can’t jump the fence and cut it at the trunk. Number four, you can’t just lob the branches back into their garden. You have to offer them to them but, if they don’t want them, and most people won’t, you have to dispose of them yourself.”
The video has been viewed hundreds of times since it was shared, with many being quick to comment. It seems to be a topic that confuses a lot of people.
One person said: “Thank you for this. I have been telling people this for years and they won’t listen.” Another added: “I just trim from the side. Not a big deal. We love trees.”
A third also replied: “Also, check for nesting birds and bats. All nesting birds are protected by law in the UK, even pigeons.”
Little you may know, Michael’s advice is accurate. If a neighbour’s tree is causing you issues, it’s best to try and resolve the matter politely first. However, if this doesn’t work, there are some things you can do.
You have the right to trim branches or roots that cross your property line, but you must only cut back to the boundary. Then, you need to return the trimmings to the owner, and ensure no damage is caused to the tree.
As well as this, you should never remove a protected tree without permission. If the problem continues, you can contact your local council for help or, if matters worsen, seek legal advice.
The Government website states: “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. If you live in a conservation area, or the trees in the hedge are protected by a ‘tree preservation order’, you might need your council’s permission to trim them.”
Further advice is available on the website too.