High hedges
You can make a high hedge application if it's blocking light to your house or garden.
Before you start
You can only make an application to remove a high hedge as a last resort, if you can't resolve the dispute any other way. You should have tried to resolve things with the hedge owner before you make an application.
When you make an application you must ensure the hedge:
- forms a line of 2 or more trees or shrubs
- is more than 2 metres high
- forms a barrier to light in your house or garden
You must also:
- be the owner or occupier of the affected property
- keep records of dates and things you do to try to resolve it
- write to the hedge owner at least twice in the last 6 months - One must be by recorded delivery or from a lawyer
- attach evidence of correspondence with the hedge owner, including letters and plans in your application.
How much does it cost?
The fee is £518.50.
Payment is required by credit/debit card at the end of this online application.
Download the high hedge application guidance notes (PDF) [230KB]
What happen's next?
We'll check the application. We'll also decide if you've done enough to resolve the issue yourself and whether the hedge/trees are deemed to constitute a high hedge in terms of the High Hedges (Scotland) Act 2013.
If we go ahead with the application we'll:
- contact the hedge owner
- visit the site
- make a decision
Our decision
We'll write to you and the hedge owner with our decision.
If we agree to take action, we may ask the hedge owner to:
- reduce the height of the hedge
- remove the hedge
- set rules about maintaining the hedge in future
Appeals
Both you and the hedge owner have the right to appeal.
Contact us
Email: planning@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
Phone: 0141 577 3001
