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The fastest ways to remove a tree stump are by grinding it or burning it.

Stump grinding is often the quickest method, with professionals able to chip away a stump and its roots within a single session. You have the option to hire a professional stump removal service or rent a stump grinder to do it yourself. However, it's important to note that these machines can be large, difficult to transport, and dangerous to operate without prior experience. For safety reasons, hiring a local arborist or landscape specialist is often recommended.

Burning is another fast option. Before you begin, check your local burn laws. The process involves drilling holes into the stump, filling them with vegetable oil, and waiting 24 to 48 hours. Afterward, you can add charcoal bricks to the surface and light the fire, which must be attended at all times.

For a more affordable but much slower alternative, you can use potassium nitrate pellets to accelerate the natural decomposition process. This method typically takes four to six months.

Unfortunately, most of the time you’re out of luck if a neighbor’s tree blocks your view. You don’t have a right to a view, so if you have a tree that’s near the property line but on your neighbor’s property, you can’t cut it to be able to take in a majestic mountain or a beautiful sunrise. In some communities, however, there are ordinances protecting scenic views. Checking into your local laws can help you determine your rights in this situation.

Generally, you do not have the right to take fruit from a neighbor's tree, even if the branches overhang your property. The fruit is considered the property of the tree's owner. While you may have the right to trim branches that cross into your yard, the fruit on them typically still belongs to your neighbor. However, laws can vary by state and municipality. In some areas, branches that extend into your yard or trees that straddle a property line may entitle you to some of the fruit. The best course of action is to speak with your neighbor, as they may be happy to share. If a conversation is not possible, check your local regulations before picking any fruit.

It takes anywhere from three to seven years for a stump to decompose on its own. This timeframe can depend on the kind of tree and your climate. The lower to the ground the stump is, the faster it rots. If you kill a tree stump with salt, boiling water, herbicide, light deprivation, or burning, the tree stump decomposes faster.