Comments on: Sycamore Drive Closed Due to Downed Power Lines

By: Steve

Steve — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:27:21 +0000

I’m not sure about your right to cut the portion of neighbor’s tree hanging over your property without permission. I imagine you can, but you might want to consult with an arborist or attorney.

By: Steve

Steve — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:18:29 +0000

It would be tough for an arborist to do anything but assess the general condition of the tree. They can’t tell too much about the extent of the root system.

By: Scott

Scott — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:11:20 +0000

Or, if you want to jockey for a Horrible Neighbor or Total Jackass Award, you can just cut whatever extends over the property line into your yard. It goes against pretty much everything this town seems to value but, I suppose if you’re up against a neighbor who refuses to do anything themselves, it’s worth knowing it’s your right to get choppin’. (Steve, this is correct, right?)

Always better to work it out all neighborly like, though.

By: Karass

Karass — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:58:52 +0000

Great suggestions. What about tall trees that are not overlooking our property but could fall on it if they tipped over? How can even an arborist know whether to worry?

By: Steve

Steve — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:47:28 +0000

Or, lacking that, you could ask permission to at least trim the part of the tree that overlooks your property, if that makes you feel better. BTW, if your neighbor refuses either request, you might want to find a way to document that, since it could qualify for negligence on their part and therefore make them liable, although you might need an arborist to substantiate it.