It’s not just good fences that make good neighbors—courteous and timely tree maintenance is also essential for maintaining good relationships with your neighbors. Talk to a certified arborist if you have questions about keeping your trees healthy and beautiful, and consider the following answers to common questions about trees and neighborliness.
Am I responsible for tree limbs that overhang my neighbor’s property?
While you are not legally required to stop a tree from growing in a way that overhangs a neighbor’s property, it may be ideal to do so. For example, if a neighbor becomes injured due to your tree’s growth over their property, they may be able to sue you for personal injury damages. The same is true for property damage that occurs due to a falling tree limb. In addition, the neighbor may choose to take matters into their own hands and prune the tree themselves, potentially causing irreversible damage to your tree.
Can I trim a neighbor’s tree that is encroaching on my property?
Yes—if a neighbor’s tree is growing onto your property, you can remove the limbs and roots up to the property line. You cannot remove any limbs or roots that are on your neighbor’s property or intentionally destroy the tree. However, it is often best to contact your neighbor first to request that they take care of the tree themselves. If they don’t, contact a certified arborist who can prune the tree in a way that is safe for all parties involved.
What should I do if a neighbor asks me to remove a tree?
Sometimes, a tree may block a neighbor’s view, and they may ask you to remove it as a result. However, if the tree is not in danger of falling and damaging their property, and you do not want to remove it, then you do not have to. To maintain a positive relationship, you could offer to schedule crown reduction services, which will help to reduce the overall height of the tree. One caveat—if you live in a neighborhood that’s governed by an HOA, be sure that your tree is permitted in the HOA’s rules and regulations. Otherwise, your neighbor could report your violation to the HOA, and you may face a fine as well as the need to remove the tree.
Complete Landscaping is ready to help with any of your Tucson landscaping needs, including tree problems. Whether you want to have trees on your property inspected or prune back a neighbor’s tree that is overhanging your property, our certified arborists can provide the reliable tree services you need. For more information, call (520) 323-8918 today.