neighbours tree overgrowing

[essexshazza]

is it okay to trim branches of an empty property's tree as it has grown so tall its blocking out our natural light, am i right in thinking its fine as long as the branches are left in the garden, it is a council property. i have contacted them but to no avail.thanks

[Buenchico]

As you suggest, you can cut back the tree to your boundary as long as you return whatever you've cut off to the tree's owner (by depositing the branches in the neighbouring garden). The only exception to this would be if the tree is the subject of a preservation order. (Check with the planning department of your local authority before reaching for your saw):
http://www.planningni.gov.uk/Devel_Control/inf o_leaflets/TPO/tpo.htm

Chris

[essexshazza]

thanks for that Buenchico. :-)

[terambulan]

As the property is empty it belongs to the Council and since they have not responded they dont want to cut down the tree. They're probably leaving it to the new tenant.

Now u have the chance to remove the tree do it before the new tenant gets in and remove all the evidence. You can always claim ignorance and say loggers cut it down while u were out. Get some cheap polish labour to do it quick. It'll save lots of future bickering for you.