A Monifieth pensioner was stunned to discover the local council is charging him hundreds of pounds to probe a high hedge complaint.
The cancer-stricken 91-year-old is calling for change after being told it will cost £275 just for the council to visit his property to view the 13ft-high hedge.
Robert McCleary is in the midst of a dispute with his neighbour Keith Brodie over the leylandii between the properties.
He called in the council under new high hedges legislation, which came into force in April, but will be charged the fee even if they do not do anything about it.
Mr Brodie claims he needs the hedge for privacy.
Mr McCleary said: “I think it’s most unfair. I’m a 91-year-old cancer sufferer and I can’t afford to pay that.
“You have to send that (money) in with the form before the council advise whether or not you can even pursue a claim.”
The hedge, composed of 20 leylandii, blocks out almost all light to Mr McCleary’s kitchen, especially during the winter months.
Mr McCleary remains determined to have the trees removed.
He said: “I understand the arguments about privacy and when the trees were put up, there was no legislation at the time.
“I thought the council would be able to assess and cut it down if necessary because that’s what we pay council tax for.
“I just wanted to warn other people in a similar situation, who might be thinking about taking action.”
Mr McCleary suffers from cancer in his lungs and prostate and has a blue badge and a disabled space outside his home.
He said: “It’s stressful but I’m not looking for sympathy I want to alert people of the fee charged by Angus Council.”
Mr Brodie, the hedge owner, said: “If it’s something he feels strongly about, he can pursue it through the proper channels.
“The hedge screens my house and offers my neighbours privacy too. I agree with the legislation and will comply with it if I’m found in the wrong.”
An Angus Council spokesman said: “The fee goes some way to covering our costs and is lower than many other authorities. There are no discounts or exemptions.”