If you have a problem with the height of a neighbour's hedge, you can apply for a high hedge notice. This is part of the High Hedges Act.
Applying for a high hedge notice is a last resort. You should take all the steps you can to fix the issue with your neighbour before applying. We will ask for proof of this, but you can check what steps you need to take before applying.
For a hedge to count as a high hedge it must:
The High Hedges Act doesn't cover:
Once we have enough proof you've tried to fix the issue, and you have met the basic criteria of a high hedge, we will start the application process.
If it's a single tree, or it's obvious it isn't a hedge, we will let you know before the application process starts.
If this isn't the case, we may not confirm whether or not it's a high hedge until we have started the application process and carried out a site visit.
When you submit a notice application we will send you a letter of acknowledgement. This letter will provide contact details for the official dealing with the case.
We will also write to the owner of the hedge to tell them there is an application for a high hedge notice against it. An investigating officer will then visit the property and assess the hedge.
They will assess:
Once the case has been assessed we will notify the applicant and the owner of their decision.
If the application is successful the owner of the hedge will have at least 28 days to follow the high hedge notice. If the owner of the hedge doesn't follow the notice the council can carry out the work themselves. If they do so they must give 14 days' notice.
The applicant or the owner can appeal the council's decision to Scottish ministers.