• Trimming Overhanging Branches From Your Neighbor

    11 Jul 2022 | blog | admin

  • The majority of people believe that they are sovereignly entitled to do what they wish. This is especially true when branches and roots encroach on neighboring properties. Trimming overhanging branches from your neighbor is more than ok to do.

    But that’s not true.

    Let’s take a look at the court decisions on this topic to get a better understanding about the legal implications of trimming overhanging branches from your neighbor with this little story.

    The Story

    Patel (the neighbor), hired a contractor in 1994 to remove roots from the Monterey pine that his neighbor, Booska (Hayek) had. Patel claimed that the roots had begun to cause damage to concrete around his property. A 3′ trench was dug by the contractor along the property line. This effectively cut off a large portion of the roots that were needed to survive. Booska was forced to remove the tree at his expense and seek legal judgment. A court of appeal ruled in his favor and awarded Booska significant restitution.

    You might be wondering, “Is this really the only case?”

    Au contraire…

    In the 2012 case Rony and Costa, a property owner hired an unlicensed day laborer to trim branches that had crossed his property line. Instead of investigating the matter, the day laborer was let loose on the trees as Jason on Friday the 13th. The trees, however, were unlucky cabin campers. The property owner was required to pay $45,000.00 in restitution for his efforts.

    Conclusion

    What is the conclusion of all this?

    Be familiar with your responsibilities and responsibilities as a property-owner.

    Hire a certified arborist in Pinellas such as Arborwise Tree Service who is familiar with the law to help you understand what you can and cannot do.

    Arborwise always informs people about their rights and responsibilities when they call to get an estimate for property line trimming. Arborwise Tree Service explains to them that they may not be allowed to do what they wish or get the result they want.

    If there is no way to see eye-to-eye with your neighbor, then consult a lawyer who is experienced in arboriculture law.

    Choose Arborwise Tree Service

    Our team at Arborwise Tree Service is available to help you with tree care challenges of any kind.  Contact us today for your quote on your lawn services such as:

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