What's the proper way to handle neighbors tree's that hang over?

Question

I love a nice green yard with a few small tree's and bushes. My neighbor has a row of very large maple tree's. The limbs hang over into my yard about 8-10 feet, in some places 4-5 feet off my ground...and those ugly maple roots are popping up on my side of the fence.

BEFORE I go over there and ask if can trim the trees on my side...and hopefully pull up these roots that are killing my yard...along with blocking the light and somewhat the rain

do I have the right to do this?

your thought please

Answer 1

OMG yes! they are devaluing your property. That is your side and you get to choose what is on your side. I would have cut them long ago!

You really dont even need to ask in the way of "is it okay" because it is your rite! You can ask for their input on what you're cutting or if they wanna help you so their trees dont look like you took a 1/3 slice off the side of it.

Answer 2

In most states any branches that hang over on your property are yours to trim and do as you please.

Roots however are probably off limits as they will kill a tree if you pull them up or cut them off.

Check with the local authorities on the ordinance in your area. Talk to your neighbor and explain what you are going to do and why. Have your facts in order as they will object. Ask them if they want to let you trim all the way back to the trunk as it will look much nicer. otherwise whack them off at the property line.

Answer 3

yes, if its on YOUR property then you can cut them if necessary. I had the same problem with the neighbor lady about a year ago, god it was a horrible fight! Any way if he doesnt compromise call the city and ask them what you are legally allowed to do, i think you can cut the b******s down though!

Answer 4

I do believe that you have the right to cut the portion that hangs on your side.  But, if you get nowhere with the neighbor, you may consider cutting or poisoning the roots on your property without his knowledge.  You could become tangled in a long and costly court dispute and waist your time if you attempt to resolve it in a civil manner.  You would have a better feel of their response since they are your neighbor, but my experience has been to just quietly dispose of the problem from your side of the fence for a long term resolve.

Answer 5

You have the right to cut anything that hangs over on your property to include roots..it is defacing your property you can cut them..do not use poison this is illegal..but the roots can be cut..i have a neighbor that has bamboo that tries to take over my yard and even damaged a swimming pool..I dug them up on my side of the fence..