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High Hedges

The Leyland Cypress Problem

The information contained on this page relates only to evergreen and semi-evergreen hedges, such as Leyland Cypress, that are subject of the Antisocial Behaviour Act, Part 8, 2003.

Detailed information on such hedges, including the leaflet High hedges: complaining to the Council (pdf document)may be found on the website of Communities and Local Government. Alternatively information can be obtained from the High Hedges and Trees Officer at Dover District Council.

The Problem

As the owner or occupier of a property, your reasonable right to enjoyment of that property is harmed by a neighbour’s evergreen, or semi-evergreen hedge.

The Solution

Agree with the neighbour that the hedge be reduced to an amenable height.

Unable to agree?

In reality neighbours may not be so co-operative and resulting disputes can cost a great deal of money and stress to everyone affected. This has led to the introduction of legislation that allows a formal complaint to be made to the Local Authority concerning the height of a neighbour’s hedge.

It is important to understand that a complaint to the Council must be the last resort. If you have not attempted to solve the problem by talking to your neighbour, or by some means of formal mediation, the complaint will not be investigated.

Complaining to the Council

If you have been unsuccessful in reaching a solution and want to proceed with a formal complaint, or for further information:

Telephone: 01304 872205

or write to:

High Hedges and Trees Officer
Conservation Section
Planning Department
Dover District Council
White Cliffs Business Park
Dover
CT16 3 PJ

Telephone: (01304) 872205
E-mail: conservation@dover.gov.uk