legislation against tree / hedge height?

[chirpychirpy]

Am I right in thinking that councils can only legislate against the height of leylandii - no other trees unless they constitute a hedge? What does constitute a hedge?

[Postdog]

this site might have the answers

http://www.gardenlaw.co.uk/

[alan30]

Not just leylandii - anything evergreen or semi evergreen. Councils may take action only if someone complains - this is not an automatic process.

This link has the main details

http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planni ngandbuilding/pdf/highhedgescomplaining.pdf

[buildersmate]

Yes, they use the statutory nuisance legislation to do it.
Some councils may charge a fee for doing it.

[jake-the-peg]

There are 3 criteria for action.

1/ it must be over 2m high
2/ it must be a hedge - defined as more than 1 tree with overlapping branches
3/ it must prevent somebody from "reasonable enjoyment" of their property

3 basically means that if you have a huge garden and are only slightly overshadowed it's rather different from if your postage stamp of a garden no longer gets any direct sunlight

If 1 & 2 are satisfied the council will make an inspection for 3.

Different councils have diferent policies. Most charge, with some it's refundable if they find in your favour.

Check with your local council for their particular policies