Corpus Galabau · Guide · November 2026
The protection period from 1 March to 30 September
Under § 39 Abs. 5 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (Bundesnaturschutzgesetz), it is prohibited from 1 March to 30 September to cut back hedges, bushes and other woody plants severely or to coppice them. The rule mainly protects breeding birds. Gentle shaping and maintenance cuts that only remove new growth remain permitted during this time. For trees on land used as gardens, the statutory ban does not apply, but general species protection does.
Regardless of the season: if a nest is occupied or protected animals use the tree, the work must wait. That is why we look closely before every cut.
When to cut which hedge?
- Shaping cut: once or twice a year for many hedge plants, often around St John's Day at the end of June and again in late summer
- Hard cutting back or rejuvenation: only from October to February
- Shape: cut hedges slightly wider at the bottom than at the top so that the lower branches also get light and the hedge does not go bare
Trees: observe the tree protection bylaw
Many cities have a tree protection bylaw (Baumschutzsatzung). It defines the trunk circumference from which a tree is protected and that felling or major work on the crown requires a permit. The rules differ from city to city; sometimes fruit trees or certain species are exempt. Before felling, check whether your tree is affected. The application is usually made by the owner.
Prune properly instead of topping
Professional tree pruning removes deadwood and crossing or damaged branches and, if needed, creates clearance over paths and parking spaces. Topping, in which the crown is cut back radically, usually harms the tree permanently: it forms many thin, poorly anchored shoots, and large wounds give fungi a way in.
Boundary distances to the neighbour
The NRW neighbour law act (Nachbarrechtsgesetz NRW) regulates how far hedges, shrubs and trees must be from the boundary. For hedges, § 42 NachbG NRW applies: up to 2 metres high at least 0.5 metres from the boundary, higher than 2 metres at least 1 metre. For hedges, the distance is measured from the side of the hedge facing the neighbour, not from the middle of the stems – so you should factor in the later width when planting. For trees and shrubs, § 41 NachbG NRW sets separate, sometimes larger distances depending on vigour. Under § 47 NachbG NRW, the neighbour's claim for removal is excluded if they do not file a lawsuit within six years; when this period begins depends on the individual case. If in doubt, it is best to discuss it calmly with your neighbour or seek legal advice.
Duty to keep trees safe
As the owner, you are responsible for ensuring that trees on your plot do not pose an avoidable danger, for example from rotten branches over a footpath or parking space. Regular visual checks, especially after storms, are part of this. For residential complexes and older trees, a documented inspection is recommended.
How we can help
Corpus Galabau handles hedge cutting, crown care, deadwood removal and felling after checking the permit situation. We plan the cut to suit the season and take the cuttings away.
