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Can You Cut Back the Neighbor's Tree if It’s Invading Your Airspace?

Unsightly and overbearing branches can infringe on the aesthetic qualities of your property. And when those branches are attached to a tree planted on a neighboring property, it can mean a bigger headache to remedy.

Rules and specifications for pruning a tree located on a site next to yours can vary by state, city or province. Before taking any action, check the local laws that apply in your area and consult an arborist. Many state, local and municipal specifications on tree care and property law can be found online.

Many states determine ownership of a tree on the location of the trunk. A trunk that crosses property lines is considered a shared tree; therefore, each property owner is responsible for the health and maintenance of the tree.

In addition, several state laws allow property owners to prune tree branches that invade any part of the airspace on their properties provided that it doesn’t affect the health of the tree.

When a tree stands on government property, the laws can be very specific for who is authorized to perform pruning work and when it can be done. Permits are often required before changes can be made to these trees, and failure to obtain them can result in heavy fines, especially when the work damages a tree’s health.

Pruning branches can be one of the most beneficial practices arborists do to trees. Winter months are the perfect time to schedule tree pruning. With leaves gone, arborists have better access to the structure of the tree and higher visibility to determine where corrective pruning is needed.

How Davey Can Help

At Davey, we’re committed to doing whatever we can to protect your valuable trees and plants.

For more information, please contact us.

Research provided by The Davey Institute

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