Planting
Tree and shrub distance from the fence
Netherlands
Civil Code Book 5 Article 42 sets 2 m from the centre of a tree trunk and 0.5 m for shrubs and hedges, unless a local ordinance or established local custom allows less. Consent, public roads/water and a plant no higher than the dividing wall can change the result.
Distances and rules
Tall trees are planted farthest from the boundary, shrubs closest, so crown and roots do not shade or damage the neighbour’s plot or utilities.
Tree trunk centre
2 m from the boundary
Netherlands — Civil Code Book 5, Article 42
Shrub / hedge
0.5 m from the boundary
Netherlands — Civil Code Book 5, Article 42
Important limitation
This is a planning aid, not a legal opinion. Before construction, check the local land-use rules, easements, the network/utility operator’s requirements and neighbour buildings.
