Gardening experts at Toolstation have revealed the gardening laws you must know and not break.
While some of these laws can result in a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any problems.
Tree felling and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden that you want to get rid of, you should think twice and do your research.
The garden experts reveal: “If one neighbor wants to remove or heavily prune a tree that is important to the other neighbor, there may be disputes about the impact on the view, shade or privacy.”
Even if there may be a dispute, the decision is ultimately yours, provided it is within your property boundary and there is no tree protection ordinance against it.
“However, some trees may be protected by a tree protection ordinance, and uprooting, felling or destroying these trees is therefore a criminal offence,” the experts warn.
The maximum penalty for breaching this law is £20,000, so be sure to double check if there is a TPO in place.
You can find out by contacting your local council and requesting a map with this information on it, or you can ask to speak to your local tree officer.
Property boundaries and fences: One of the main reasons for disputes between neighbors is disputes over property boundaries and fences.
To avoid this situation, garden professionals recommend checking your property deeds to determine the correct boundaries
“In most cases, it is easy to determine who owns the fence, as the fence posts are usually on the owner’s side,” they add.
“In addition, the height of fences or hedges can lead to disputes between neighbours if one party believes that the height exceeds the permitted two-metre limit.
“Hedges and fences should not be higher than two meters. If a neighbor complains about the height, the city can ask you to take them down.
“Fortunately, standard size fences are less than two metres high, so you shouldn’t have a problem.”
Garden structures and extensions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you are looking for a place to relax in the shade.
However, if it obstructs your neighbor’s view or violates local building regulations, it – like sheds and other garden structures – can cause disputes.
“If you are unsure, talk to your neighbours and let them know your plans. If there is a problem, contact your local council who can give you further advice,” advise the gardening experts.
Overhanging branches and plants: “If branches, tendrils or roots of a neighbour’s trees or plants extend into the neighbour’s property, this can lead to disputes over possible structural damage, blocked views or maintenance costs,” reveal the professionals.
Please note, however, that you may only cut back overhanging branches up to the property line, otherwise this could be considered trespassing.
You may climb into the tree to do the work if necessary, but only on your property. Be sure to stay on your side of the fence if you do not have permission to enter your neighbor’s yard.
