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CONSERVATION & DESIGN

You should find the answers to many of your questions on this page. We also point you in the right direction if you want more information or need to make contact.

High Hedges

Background

The High Hedges legislation came into force on June 1 2005.

Further information can be found at Communities and Local Government website (This link will open in a new window) and includes the following:

• High hedges general information
• Over the garden hedge
• High hedges; complaining to the council

Requirements

If you are a resident of South Cambridgeshire District Council and unable to settle your hedge dispute amicably you can take your complaint to South Cambridgeshire District Council provided

• The hedge comprises of a line of two or more evergreen or semi-evergreen trees/shrubs
• The hedge is over 2m high
• The hedge acts as a barrier to light or access
• Due to the height the hedge adversely affects the complainants reasonable enjoyment of the domestic property

South Cambridgeshire District Council charges a fee for this process; please contact us for current fees.

A complaint must be made on the official form provided by South Cambridgeshire District Council, contact us on 03450 450 500.

Decision Making

Upon receipt of a compliant the application will be checked to ensure all relevant information has been provided. Once this has been done an Enforcement Officer will make a visit to take relevant measurements and site details.

If officers decide that action should be taken a formal 'Remedial Notice' will be sent to the owner of the hedge outlining what action is required and by when.

Both the hedge owner and complainant have the right of appeal against the council's decision.