Menu

Our Reviews
Michael Helms
google

I began using Driscoll Tree Service back in 2021 and was so impressed with their knowledge and quality of work, I have only hired Driscoll Tree Service since!  Just a few weeks ago, my large oak tree needed a trim and once again it was a great job!!

Gretta Michaels
google

This is the second time using Driscoll, and we are pleased with the service. Michael is knowledgeable and punctual. We had eight trees trimmed, and they left no traces of the work in our yard. Polite workers. Reasonably priced as well. Highly recommend.

Schedule

Tree Removal Services Today

Get Appointment
sideimage

Can You Cut Your Neighbor’s Overhanging Tree Branches?

Neighborly conflicts are common among many homeowners, the most common being trees or branches hanging from the neighboring yard. If you’ve asked your neighbor to remove the branches with no luck or noticed overhanging limbs posing a safety hazard, call a trusted tree care company quickly. At the Driscoll Tree Service, we provide pertinent information and quality services to help you handle the situation lawfully. The last thing you want is a hefty fine or legal action. Let’s explore the legality and protocol surrounding trimming your neighbor’s overhanging tree branches.

secondary

Can You Cut Branches from Your Neighbor’s Tree?

The most frequently asked question regarding overhanging tree branches is whether you can trim them without your neighbor’s permission. While the law permits you to trim branches that extend over your property line in most areas, ensure you do not trespass onto your neighbor’s property. We can dispatch certified arborists to trim the branches to the property line cautiously to avoid severe damage and tree removal emergencies.  

Can You Force a Neighbor to Cut Branches or the Entire Tree?

While you can trim overhanging branches, you cannot force your neighbor to cut down an entire tree or remove branches that do not pose safety risks. Suppose the tree is causing property damage on your premises or is a significant safety hazard. In that case, you can contact your local authorities or tree service professionals to assess the situation and determine the proper action.

When to Cut Tree Limbs from Your Neighbor’s Tree

Knowing the right time to trim your neighbor’s overhanging tree branches. As mentioned, it’s advisable to do so when the branches pose a safety risk or when they are causing damage to your property. Overhanging branches can damage roofs, gutters, and fences, and are a potential hazard during storms or windy weather. We recommend hiring a tree care company to determine the ideal trimming season before you proceed. Communicate with your neighbor about your concerns and intentions to prevent conflicts and promote a cooperative approach to the problem.

What Happens If a Neighbor Cuts Your Tree?

secondary

Just as you can trim overhanging branches that cross into your property, your neighbor also can do the same. However, they must exercise care to avoid unnecessary damage or tree removal. You may be entitled to compensation if your neighbor damages your tree while trimming overhanging branches. Discuss your concerns with your neighbor and agree on how to address the issue without causing harm to the tree or each other’s property.

You can do so up to the property line when trimming your neighbor’s overhanging tree branches. However, forcing your neighbor to cut down a tree or branches not posing an immediate danger is not within your rights. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, ask a reputable tree service to communicate with your neighbor and exercise caution when trimming branches to avoid disputes and potential damage. Contact us at the Driscoll Tree Service to schedule a consultation with our arborists. This goes a long way to fostering good neighborly relations and understanding the legal boundaries surrounding overhanging tree branches.

Other News

blog1
May 07,2025
How to Manage Fallen Tree Leaves in Your Yard

How to Manage Fallen Tree Leaves in Your Yard We've got all four seasons here in the Metro Atlanta area, but the seasons like to blur their lines. One minute it’s spring; the next it’s 90 degrees with a chance…

Read More
blog1
Jan 11,2023
How to Save a Storm-Damaged Tree

How to Save a Storm-Damaged Tree Storms strike anytime, causing significant damage to utility lines, houses, and commercial buildings. In addition, storms may damage trees, but it is often minor and results in no permanent damage. It would help if…

Read More
blog1
Aug 22,2025
Fall Tree Care: When to Prune, Trim, or Remove

Summer is winding down, the days are getting shorter, and the air will be crisp and the leaves will start falling before you know it. For tree owners, that means it’s time to think ahead. Fall is one of the…

Read More
blog1
Oct 11,2022
Deep Root Fertilization and Its Benefits

Deep Root Fertilization and Its Benefits Property owners usually focus fertilization efforts on their turf and forget that huge, shady trees also need a nutrition boost. However, the process is not as simple as sprinkling a handful of fertilizer around…

Read More
blog1
Oct 21,2025
Tree Care Tips to Avoid Costly Damage

Tree Care Tips to Avoid Costly Damage Entropy is the natural direction of things. Left alone, everything tends to drift toward disorder – and your yard is no exception. Picture a forest untouched by human hands: vines tangled around tree…

Read More
blog1
Jun 14,2023
Harmful Pests for Your Trees

Harmful Pests for Your Trees Trees are beautiful, essential for our environment, and vulnerable to various pests that can cause significant damage. These pests can compromise the health and longevity of trees, leading to their decline or even death. Tree…

Read More
blog1
Jun 26,2025
The Best Time of Year to Trim Your Trees (And Why It Matters)

The Best Time of Year to Trim Your Trees (And Why It Matters) Trees are more than just scenery that beautify Metro Atlanta's landscape; they’re vital parts of our yards and provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. If you want…

Read More
blog1
Jul 18,2023
Brown or Black Spots on Tree Leaves

Brown or Black Spots on Tree Leaves As a homeowner, landscaping enhances curb appeal, safety, and property value. This includes scheduling routine inspections with a professional tree service provider. Trees provide many benefits to your home and the ecosystem, hence…

Read More
blog1
May 22,2025
Top Signs You Need an Arborist to Inspect Your Trees

Top Signs You Need an Arborist to Inspect Your Trees Most of us love the trees on our property because they offer shade, beauty, privacy, and even fruit in some cases! Despite our appreciation, how well do we really understand…

Read More
blog1
May 17,2023
Fescue vs. Bermuda Grass

Fescue vs. Bermuda Grass Do you have dry patches on your lawn? Before reseeding, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with different grasses, like fescue and Bermuda. Although these grasses grow on lawns across the country, knowing the differences can…

Read More