Overhanging Branches and Neighbouring Trees

Overhanging Branches and Neighbouring Trees

Where branches from a neighbouring tree overhang your property, you may have a common law right to prune them back to the boundary line.

Before carrying out any work, we recommend discussing your intentions with the tree owner. Any branches, fruit or other material removed from the tree remain the property of the tree owner and should be offered back to them.

You must not enter neighbouring land or carry out work beyond your property boundary without the landowner's permission.

Care should be taken to avoid causing damage to the tree or making it unsafe. To minimise the risk of damage or disputes, works should be carried out by a competent contractor in accordance with British Standard BS 3998: Tree Work – Recommendations.

If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is located within a Conservation Area, consent may be required before any work is undertaken.