My neighbor has planted a tall hedge that blocks my view. Is he allowed to do that?
March 25, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Nina König
Dear lawyer,
I am contacting you because I have a problem with my neighbor. For some time now, he has planted a tall hedge on his property that greatly obstructs my view. As a result, I can no longer see into my garden and I feel almost trapped. I am concerned that this not only affects my quality of life, but also diminishes the value of my property.
I am aware that neighbors generally have the right to plant hedges and trees on their property. However, I wonder if there is a limit in my case, when the hedge completely blocks the view. Are there any legal regulations or provisions that could require my neighbor to reduce the height of the hedge or take other measures to restore my view?
I have already tried to talk to my neighbor about the problem, but he is not willing to change the situation. Therefore, I am seeking your advice on what legal steps I can take to protect my interests and find a solution to this problem. Perhaps there are alternative options, such as mediation or arbitration, to reach an agreement with my neighbor.
I thank you in advance for your support and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Maria Brandes
Dear Mrs. Brandes,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the issue with your neighbor's hedge. It is understandable that you feel burdened by the impairment of your view and quality of life. Indeed, there are legal regulations and provisions in neighbor law that may be relevant in such cases.
In general, neighbors have the right to plant hedges and trees on their property. However, there are also limits to the height of such plants, especially if they impair the view or disturb other neighbors. In many states, there are boundary distance regulations that determine how far plants must be from the property line. These regulations may vary depending on the state, so it is advisable to consult the local building authority or a specialized attorney in neighbor law to learn about the specific regulations in your state.
If your neighbor's hedge does indeed violate legal regulations, you could take legal action to compel them to reduce the height of the hedge or take other measures. However, it is advisable to first try to discuss the issue with your neighbor again and explain the applicable regulations to them. They may not be aware of the legal situation and may show more understanding for your concerns after being informed.
If an agreement with your neighbor is not possible, you can seek assistance from a specialized attorney in neighbor law who can help you enforce your rights. Alternatively, you may also consider mediation or arbitration to find an out-of-court solution to the conflict. In many cases, mediation can help both parties reach a mutually acceptable solution.
I hope this information was helpful to you and I am available for further questions. I wish you success in resolving the issue with your neighbor and hope you find a satisfactory solution.
Sincerely,
Nina König
Attorney specializing in neighbor law
