Next steps

We'll gather all the information needed to help us make a decision, this includes writing to those involved and visiting the site.

In most cases, we won't carry out consultation with other neighbours and residents' associations. Once we have all the information, we weigh it up and make a decision. There is no time limit for us to make a decision.

If your complaint does not contain the information needed, the fee will be refunded minus a £45 admin fee.

Appeals

An appeal can be made by:

• the owner of the land on which the hedge is situated
• the person making the complaint

An appeal must be made within 28 days of the notice being served. The remedial notice would be suspended whilst the appeal is being decided. Appeals will be dealt with by the Planning Inspectorate on behalf of the Secretary of State.

Read High Hedges : appealing against our decision for more information.

If any action is needed

We may issue a remedial notice to the person responsible for the hedge. This sets out what must be done and by when.

This can include long-term maintenance of the hedge at a lower height. It can't involve reducing the height of the hedge below two metres, or its removal. The hedge owner can go further than the remedial notice requires. The remedial notice becomes a charge on the property which passes to any further owners.

Time limits for carrying out the works

The time limit for carrying out works will be given in the remedial notice. It will need to give the hedge owner time to find a contractor if necessary and arrange for the works to be done. It is recommended that hedge cutting does not take place between March and August. This is to protect nesting birds.

If works aren't carried out

Failure to carry out the works is an offence. The owner of the hedge could be prosecuted and if found guilty, in a Magistrates Court, could be fined up to £1000. We can enter land and carry out works needed by a remedial notice and we can recover any expenses from the hedge owner.