Q. Is it true that I have the right to prune back my neighbour's tree to my boundary?
Yes, you have a common law right to prune back both branches and roots to your boundary. However, you must take care not to render the tree dangerous. All cuttings must be given back to the owner of the tree, or at least offered back.

Q. Can this right to prune my neighbour's tree be removed?
Yes, if a tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order or stands within a Conservation Area then this Common Law right is lost. The advice and consent of the Local Planning Authority should then be sought in order to carry out work to the tree. See the following sections on Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas.

Q. The tree outside my house blocks the light in my garden; do I have a right to light?
No, only if you can prove that you have the right to ancient light, e.g., you can prove that you have had the uninterrupted use of that light for a period greater than 20 years; do you have any right to light. This however, only applies to the windows of your property.