Q: Can I cut trees from my neighbor’s yard if they’re on my property?

• <div><p>Generally, if your neighbor&rsquo;s tree hangs over your yard, you can legally trim overhanging branches. Keep in mind that you cannot cross your property line to cut the trees, and if you damage the tree by trimming it, your neighbor could sue you. Depending on the type of tree and value, this could mean dishing out two to three times the value of the tree.</p><p>It&rsquo;s worth noting that the specifics of this type of tree maintenance and the guidelines around it may vary by location. Do your research and, most importantly, consult with your neighbor.</p></div>

Q: Is moving my tree worth the cost?

• <div><p>You&rsquo;ll have to balance up the cost, the value of the tree (sentimental or otherwise), and the risk factors. An experienced arborist will help you understand whether transplanting is likely to be successful. The cost and hassle of transplanting a large, well-established tree are often not worth it, especially if the species is fast-growing and easy to source. The decision depends on the age and species of the tree, the conditions in the new site location, and how careful the company is when digging out and moving the tree.</p></div>

Question 1

Can I cut trees from my neighbor’s yard if they’re on my property?

Accepted Answer

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Generally, if your neighbor’s tree hangs over your yard, you can legally trim overhanging branches. Keep in mind that you cannot cross your property line to cut the trees, and if you damage the tree by trimming it, your neighbor could sue you. Depending on the type of tree and value, this could mean dishing out two to three times the value of the tree.

It’s worth noting that the specifics of this type of tree maintenance and the guidelines around it may vary by location. Do your research and, most importantly, consult with your neighbor.

Question 2

Who is responsible for tree branches over property lines?

Accepted Answer

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If tree branches cross well into your property line, in many cases, these branches become part of your property, and you can trim them up until your neighbor’s property line. However, this issue will vary based on local ordinances, so you should do your research before making any decisions. Better yet, speak with your neighbor about how to handle any tree issues.

If you don’t mind the branches, you can leave them be, but if they’re becoming a hazard, it’s definitely worth having a conversation.

Question 3

Is moving my tree worth the cost?

Accepted Answer

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You’ll have to balance up the cost, the value of the tree (sentimental or otherwise), and the risk factors. An experienced arborist will help you understand whether transplanting is likely to be successful. The cost and hassle of transplanting a large, well-established tree are often not worth it, especially if the species is fast-growing and easy to source. The decision depends on the age and species of the tree, the conditions in the new site location, and how careful the company is when digging out and moving the tree.

Question 4

How much does tree service insurance cost?

Accepted Answer

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Consumers typically do not need to worry about the cost of tree insurance, as professional tree service companies pay for their own coverage. For a tree service business, an average U.S. policy covering about $1 million in general liability costs roughly $40 a month or $500 a year. More extensive policies, providing between $500,000 to $2 million in coverage, can cost between $3,000 and $6,000 annually, depending on the company's size and scope of work. Tree service professionals should speak with an insurance company to determine the right plan for their business.

Question 5

How deep should you notch a tree?

Accepted Answer

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The ideal depth of a tree notch depends on the tree, but it should usually be between 20% and 25% of the tree’s depth. However, if the tree is leaning towards the direction of the notch, it can be cut more shallowly—at as little as 10% of the depth. When the tree is leaning away from the direction it needs to be felled, you can cut deeper, closer to 30%.