Cut back overhanging branches from a neighbour's tree

Check tree protection and nesting birds first, then cut overhanging branches back to the boundary using hand tools only.

OB-01Check if the tree is protectedBefore you cut anything, find out if the tree has a Tree Preservation Order or sits in a conservation area. Call your council's planning department and give them the location — this is free and usually quick. Working on a tree with a Tree Preservation Order without the council's consent is a criminal offence, and so is working on a tree in a conservation area without giving the council six weeks' written notice first, even if it's overhanging your garden. See HomeGraft's guide 'Can I cut down or prune a tree with a tree preservation order?' for how to check and what to do if it is protected.

RULES

KNOW THE RULES

TPO trees need the council's consent, and trees in a conservation area need six weeks' written notice first. Skipping either is a criminal offence.

OB-02Check for nesting birdsLook closely through the branches you plan to cut for any birds' nests, including old-looking ones that may be in use. It's an offence to damage or destroy an active nest. The main nesting season runs roughly March to August, so avoid cutting during this time if you can, or get a professional check first if you're unsure.

RULES

KNOW THE RULES

Damaging or destroying an active bird's nest is a criminal offence under UK wildlife law.

OB-03Work out what you can safely cut yourselfThis job is hand tools only — no chainsaws, and no cutting from a ladder. Only tackle branches you can reach from the ground or a stable platform, and nothing thicker than about your forearm. If a branch is higher than head height to reach, thicker than your forearm, near power lines, a building or a road, or the tree needs climbing, call a tree surgeon instead.

OB-04Find the boundary lineWalk the boundary and identify exactly which branches cross onto your side. You're only allowed to cut back to the boundary line, not beyond it, and you must stay on your own property to do the work — never go into the neighbour's garden without asking first. Mark the branches you'll cut with a bit of string or chalk so you don't go too far.

OB-05Gather your tools and PPEWork from firm, level ground, or a stable hedge-cutting platform, within easy reach of the branches. Wear gloves and eye protection throughout, and keep the area below clear of people and pets while you work.

1 each · Pruning saw

Buy:Tooled UpB&QAmazon

1 each · Loppers

Buy:B&QAmazon

1 each · Bow saw (for thicker branches)

Buy:Tooled UpB&QAmazon

1 pair · Work gloves

Buy:Tooled UpB&QAmazon

1 pair · Safety glasses

Buy:Tooled UpB&QAmazon

1 each · Stable step platform

Buy:B&QAmazon

1 each · Tarpaulin or dust sheet

Buy:Tooled UpB&QAmazon

OB-06Cut smaller branches cleanlyFor branches under about 25mm thick, use loppers for a clean single cut. Cut just above a bud or side branch where possible, angling the cut slightly so water runs off. Avoid leaving long stubs, as these die back and look untidy.

OB-07Cut thicker branches in three stagesFor branches up to forearm thickness, use the three-cut method to avoid tearing bark down the trunk. First, cut an undercut about 150mm from where the final cut will be, roughly a third of the way through from underneath. Second, cut from the top a little further out until the branch falls away. Third, make a clean finishing cut at the collar, just outside the branch's natural swelling where it meets the main stem.

OB-08Offer the cuttings back to your neighbourThe branches still belong to the neighbour whose tree they came from. Once you've finished cutting, offer the cuttings back to them — most people will say no thanks, but it's courteous and avoids disputes. If your neighbour's hedge rather than a tree is the issue, see HomeGraft's guide on the high hedge rules instead.

OB-09Clear up and dispose of the wasteGather all cuttings onto the tarpaulin as you go to make clean-up easier. Chip or compost smaller material if you can, and take thicker branches to the local recycling centre or arrange a council garden waste collection. Wipe down your tools and store them dry to stop rust.

2 each · Garden waste bags

Buy:B&QAmazon

KNOW THE RULES

Before you start: Can I cut down or prune a tree with a tree preservation order? · What can I do about a neighbour's high hedge?

Tooled Up links are affiliate links: if you buy after clicking, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. B&Q and Amazon links are plain searches and earn us nothing.

Save this as a project

Back to all guides

Related guides