Overhanging branches

[rabbit]

There is a strip of uncultivated land alongside our garden. The owner knocked on my door today and told me he wanted all overhanging branches from our trees cut back, cleared away and at our expense. Is that the law?

[RobertArthur]

Yes, it is, quote from this source:

You are responsible for cutting back the branches of trees, shrubs and bushes that you own and that extend over your neighbour's land. Your neighbour can force you to cut them back, but is not entitled to do so himself.

In the event of a dispute, it is advisable to discuss the matter and reach a compromise.

[Bayleaf]

Seconded. We have clients who have ongoing problems with their boundary hedges bothering the neighbours. From researching it for them, even the height can be an issue if it's less than 2 metres from any boundary. But anything overhanging or encroaching the neighbour, and they're well within their right to either chop it down themselves, demand you do it, or in our clients' case, take it to the Mairie who will organise someone to do it, and send the bill to the clients. It's too big a job for us, and the clients (holiday home) don't seem bothered about following the rules and keeping peace with their residential neighbours. Not a good idea!

Just out of interest - anything that is spaced further than 2 metres from a boundary is untouchable (unless again, some branches overhang or are deemed dangerous).

The law is as strict in France as it is in the UK, and it pays to keep it sweet with neighbours!

[Hotrodder]

I suggest anyone in the situation of having next door neighbours here with trees along the boundary should find out what rules apply. Having aggro with neighbours is best avoided and often spreads.

[RobertArthur]

A summary of the regs, say it with pictures. Click to enlarge.

[rabbit]

Thanks for your answers

[RobertArthur]

Disputes between neighbours, also in the UK.