What is the Legal Height of Leylandii Trees?

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Hedge heights can be a topic of tension between neighbours, so it’s important you know the legal heights. Since Leylandii grows extremely rapidly, it is easy for your hedge to grow out of control. Below we detail the legal height of leylandii trees

Allowing your Leylandii hedge to grow too much in height can restrict light from your neighbours’ garden, leading to them making a complaint. Whilst it is always preferable to negotiate with your neighbour and come to an agreement, understanding your obligations and the legal height of leylandii trees is beneficial.

How Tall can my Leylandii Tree be?

Leylandii trees should be grown no taller than 2m in height. That being said, if a hedge is below that height and still being a nuisance to neighbours, they are within their rights to report to the council who will ultimately decide the acceptable height.

For example, even though the legal height of a Leylandii tree is 2m (as a high hedge), the council may consider the following factors:

• Whether the tree blocks sunlight to neighbouring gardens
• Whether the tree is on a slope. This may worsen the effects of the sunlight blocking
• Whether the hedge blocks a view. Whilst this is a valid reason for complaint, it is unlikely that this reason alone can be used successfully.

If you’re the owner of a growing Leylandii hedge, ensure you’re considerate of your neighbours. If a neighbour asks you to trim your hedge, it may save you a lot of trouble down the road if you do this. We’ve written a guide to how to trim your Leylandii hedge correctly in our knowledge base.

Making a Complaint with the Local Council

In order for your complaint to be registered, you are required to fill out several forms and meet certain criteria in order for your case to be reviewed. There is also a cost of £400 to prevent frivolous claims. The local council will consider both sides before making a decision and you should collect any evidence of failed communication with your neighbours. 

For more information on how to make a complaint about the legal height of a Leylandii hedge, take a look at the gov website.

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