High Hedges

Problems between neighbours about high hedges have given rise to a steady stream of correspondence to public representatives, and complaints received have generally centred on the fact that very little can be done at present to resolve the position. Possibly disputes between neighbours have become more common due to increased urban density and also the availability of low-cost and often very fast-growing hedges, which have sometimes not been well maintained.

There is currently no legislation in Northern Ireland governing the height or maintenance of a hedge. Upon taking office, the Minister of the Environment Edwin Poots MLA, stated his intention to tackle the problem by bringing forward a High Hedges Bill. This Bill will provide a much needed means of redress for people who are suffering because of a high hedge on a neighbour’s land.

Public Consultation

Public consultation on a draft High Hedges Bill ended on 1 March 2010.

The consultation document and annexes can be accessed on the High Hedges Consultation page.

The Synopisis of Responses to the Consultation can be accessed via the link below:

Synopsis of Responses to the consultation on the draft High Hedges Bill (63 KB)

High Hedges Bill Introduced in the Assembly

The High Hedges Bill was introduced in the Assembly on 26 April 2010 by the Environment Minister, Edwin Poots MLA.

A copy of the Bill can be downloaded from the link below:

High Hedges Bill (85 KB)

The Bill completed Second Stage on 10 May and is now at Committee Stage.

The aim is to have legislation enacted by March 2011 or earlier if possible.

If you have any queries please contact the High Hedges Bill Team by email at hedges@doeni.gov.uk or by telephone on 028 9025 4734.