Re: Law in the UK is clearer.
" Overhanging branches of a neighbours trees [...]"
To lop the higher branches you usually need access to the neighbour's property for a ladder. If they refuse you appear to be stymied. Tree surgeons refuse to get involved unless there is clear permission from the neighbour - even if they don't need to rest the ladder against the tree.
Official local arbitration on hedge disputes apparently only applies if the tall hedge is composed of two or more evergreens. My neighbour's large ash, sycamore, and single holly therefore do not qualify.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
