Trees and Neighbors FAQ

Questions:

• My neighbors complain that the tree in my backyard is too tall; do I have to trim it?
• Can I trim the branches of the neighbor's tree that hang over my yard?
• Most of a big oak tree hangs over my yard, but the trunk is on the neighbor's property. Who owns the tree?
• My neighbor dug up his yard, and in the process killed a tree that's just on my side of the property line. Am I entitled to compensation for the tree?
• My neighbor's tree looks like it's going to fall on my house any day now. What should I do?
• Do I have to compensate my neighbors for damage to their septic tank caused by the spreading roots of a tree on my land?
• If I have more questions about the trees on my property or my neighbor's property, what should I do next?

Answer:

My neighbor dug up his yard, and in the process killed a tree that's just on my side of the property line. Am I entitled to compensation for the tree?

Yes. The basic rule is that someone who cuts down, removes, or hurts a tree without permission owes the tree's owner money to compensate for the harm done. You can sue to enforce that right -- but you probably won't have to, once you tell your neighbor what the law is.