How to remove hedges without any legal problems

Hedges provide many benefits for your home, from creating a boundary line and privacy wall to adding an aesthetic appeal to your yard. Even so, it may not be for everyone.

There could be many reasons why you want your hedge removed. It may be because you have switched to fencing, you’re tired of maintaining them, or it clashes with your garden’s design. 

Whatever the reason, be aware that hedges are protected by law. So before you remove your hedges, you must familiarise yourself with existing laws related to it. Read further and let us guide you on your questions about hedge removal.

Hedge removal vs. hedge trimming

Don’t be confused with hedge trimming and hedge removal. Hedge trimming is done to maintain your hedges, so they can grow in the shape you want.

On the other hand, hedge removal requires digging and removal of the roots of the hedges to prevent them from growing again. We’ll take you through each step so you don’t have any legal problems when you decide to remove them.

Can I remove my own hedge?

Removing your hedge is possible but not easy. Here are the things you need to prepare if you want to do it on your own:

• Examine the space. How big is it? Smaller hedges may be easier to remove, but hedge walls may require professional help.

• Check if the hedge you are removing does not have any substantial structures beneath it. Drains and cables are among those you may encounter.

• Get the necessary permits. Local hedge laws may differ from a neighbouring state. 

Still not sure? Hire an arborist (tree surgeon) or a landscape professional to examine your area before proceeding. You may also hire a hedge remover on Airtasker, so you don’t have to go through the hassle of removing the hedges.

How to remove hedges

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you remove your hedges at home. 

What you need:

• Pruners, hedge shears, branch shears or loppers

• Spade and crowbar

• Safety equipment: gloves and goggles

• A stump grinder or mini digger (optional)

• Lots of patience!

Step 1: Clear the area 

You have to clear the area before you start removing the hedges. Using a rake, remove weeds, fallen foliage, branches, and other shrubs. If the hedges in the area are very small, you can manually remove them by grabbing firmly near the roots and exerting effort in pulling them out. Discard after removal.

Step 2: Chop off the branch of the hedge 

For medium-to-large hedges, work from the outside going in. Using your shears, chop off the branch of the hedge until you reach close to the base. If the hedge you are cutting has a height of about four to five feet, it is best to chop the top using a branch shear. Be careful in using the shears as these sharp objects can injure you if not used properly. 

Step 3: Dig up the roots

Next, you must find the roots to ensure the hedges don’t grow back. Mature hedges have deep roots which extend up to more than 20 cm. However, the majority of hedges have roots you can easily dig up.

Using a spade, dig around the area to easily have them removed. If you plan to relocate the hedge, keep the roots intact with the plant. Remove as much dirt and soil around the area to make them loose.

Step 4: Remove stubs and roots

Once loose, use your spade and crowbar to pull the stubs and roots out. If it becomes too difficult to pull manually, you can use a stump grinder or a mini digger. These machines are heavy and might need to be done by a professional. Use them only if you know how to operate them. 

You may also use a root/weed killer when removing the stubs and roots. Spray the chemicals on the roots daily and wait for them to rot. You may then remove them quickly. 

Be careful of using harmful chemicals and heavy equipment as they may damage your soil and cause future gardening problems.

Laws surrounding hedge removal

Laws and policies differ in some states. Problems usually arise when a hedge is considered a nuisance by your neighbour. Here are the laws or local policies that you should be aware of surrounding hedge removal:

• Common Law

Common law states that if a hedge branch is encroached on your neighbour’s property and causes harm, they have the right to bring the issue to local authorities so they can be allowed to trim the hedges disturbing their property.

• Trees Act 2006

The Trees Act mandates that trees or hedges be trimmed or removed by the owner to avoid severe obstruction and allow sunlight in the neighbourhood. 

• Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011

The Neighbourhood Disputes Act was developed from the Trees Act 2006. Hedges are considered to be a fence. You must secure your neighbour's consent before removing the hedge if situated within a boundary.

If your neighbour considers it a nuisance or obstruction, the owner must trim or remove it.

• Neighbourhood Disputes about Plants Act 2017 (Tree Act)

The Neighbourhood Disputes about Plants Act aims to provide clear instructions when solving problems that involve plants disturbing property or are considered a nuisance by the neighbours.

See the table below to know what law your state follows when it comes to hedge removal:

If you are hiring an arborist or a landscape professional, ensure they follow the Australian Standard in Pruning of Amenity Trees (AS4373-2007), which uses up-to-date knowledge, best practices, and the cultivation of trees.

When is the best time to remove hedges?

The end of the winter and the start of spring are the best times to remove hedges. This is because smaller branches are easier to cut off and remove due to the cold weather. If you only want a trim, summer is the best time to maintain your hedges.

☞ Learn more: Gardening tips

Disturbing hedges in your area?

If you have any problems with hedges in your area, you might want to consider hedge trimming first. But if you’ve finally decided to have it removed, Airtasker offers hedge removal services to save you from the trouble of doing everything on your own. Say goodbye to hedges, feel the sun, and see a fresh new view right in the comfort of your home.