Anonymous

My Neighbour's Tree Overhangs My Garden. Can I Cut The Branches Back?

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E Jacobson Profile
E Jacobson answered
In the UK you have the legal right to cut back any branches of a tree which overhangs your garden. However, in legal terms, the branches which you cut down actually still belong to your neighbour (although s/he is unlikely to want them back).
In terms of neighbourliness it is advisable to have a word with your neighbour before you cut back the branches, just so that they are aware of your plans and if they object you may be able to resolve this by negotiation (although lawfully you are in the right).
You do need to be careful when actually cutting back the branches. If you cut off any which are actually on his land then he could accuse you of damage to his property. If this concerns you, it may be prudent to have a tree surgeon in, but you would have to bear the cost of this. Not your neighbour.
karin bernal Profile
karin bernal answered
Yes, you can legally cut the branches back of your neighbor's tree, but as Hedgehog said, it would be smart to talk with your neighbor about this first.

If it is a citrus tree it should be pruned back correctly, actually most trees need to be pruned correctly so be sure that you do so with care.

In the case of a tree surgeon being called upon, the same rule of payment applies.

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