{"id":369358,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:23","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/neighbors\/neighbors-trees.html"},"modified":"2025-07-09T12:45:00","modified_gmt":"2025-07-09T17:45:00","slug":"neighbors-trees","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/neighbors\/neighbors-trees.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Complain About a Neighbor’s Tree"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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How To Complain About a Neighbor's Tree<\/h1>\n
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\n By Eric Harvey, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Aisha Success, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Trees are a common source of disputes among neighbors. Your options depend on the specific tree problem and the relevant laws. When a polite conversation with the neighbor fails to solve the issue, you may consider your legal options.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Tree issues can take many forms. Perhaps a tree falls on and damages a neighbor’s property. Sometimes a neighbor’s tree blocks what would be a scenic or otherwise pleasant view. In other cases, a neighbor’s tree may actually block a view of something unpleasant. It might have been obstructing the view of a garbage collection site or freeway. In that case, cutting down a tree may cause friction between neighbors. <\/p>\r\n

Before complaining about a tree, you should know your rights and options. This article describes common topics about tree laws and neighbor disputes. It also discusses information on what you can do to protect the enjoyment of your land.<\/p>\r\n

Yet, you should get advice from a real estate lawyer<\/a> before taking any legal action. They can help you address problems like boundary disputes or loss of house value due to property views.<\/p>\r\n

Notifying Your Neighbor<\/h2>\r\n

When a tree problem arises between neighbors, the first step is to speak with the tree owner. Neighbors can often informally work out a solution, saving both parties the hassle of further action.<\/p>\r\n

Prepare for the conversation by understanding each person’s legal obligations, including who is responsible for tree removal or associated costs. It’s a good idea to stay polite when describing the problem. <\/p>\r\n

For difficult tree disputes, neighbors can also consider mediation<\/a>. A mediator acts as a neutral third party who guides the conversation in a productive manner. Mediation is not legally binding, but it can help both people reach a solution on their own terms. <\/p>\r\n

Other Possible Options in Tree Disputes<\/h2>\r\n

Unfortunately, some problems aren’t solved after a neighborly discussion. Perhaps the costs involved with the dispute are very high. Maybe your neighbor refuses to follow laws and ordinances. <\/p>\r\n

Your next step depends on the particular case, but it may involve:<\/p>\r\n