Courtney, an HOA board member in Maryland The Property Line is Sacred. What about the Canopy Conservation Law in Montgomery County? 6. However, you must prove that the tree is causing actual harm and not merely creating a potential hazard.Third, you also may have some options in terms of insurance. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information and to clearly explain your options. What can I do if my neighbor has a dangerous tree? Who Is Responsible for Trimming Overhanging Tree Branches? Situation 2. State law provides that the owner of a tree whose branches overhang an adjoining landowner's property is liable for damages caused by the overhanging branches. How To Prepare Your Home For A Tree Failure. In the absence of file-specific attribution or copyright, the Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library may hold the copyright to parts of this website. The tents of eastern tent caterpillars are unsightly but rarely cause damage to trees. If you intend to remove a substantial part of a tree, employ a tree surgeon or arborist to carry out the work for you. It is essential that you determine the location of your property line. To verify it, contact the Maryland Forest Serviceor call 410-260-8531. (678) 223-5495 Regarding a property line tree, the State of Washington says that either neighbor can trim growth that encroaches onto their property. 3. Even if the tree trunk is on your neighbors property, you have the responsibility for cutting any branches that extend onto your property line. There are many insects and diseases of forests and trees in Montgomery County. If youre putting your house up for sale and mention the serene lake view, the neighbors overhanging tree branches can hinder that selling point., If your portion of a tree obstructs a protected scenic view, you may be held responsible for cutting the overhanging branches, or your city may do it for you., wherever the tree debris falls will determine who is responsible for it, . Will these damages be covered under your home insurance? Many arborists have more than one qualification. Whether you can cut your neighbors tree that has branches hanging over your land, the Maryland courts follow the Hawaiian Rule whereby the owner of the tree has no obligation to control the growth of the tree or to pay for damage to your property caused by the overhanging limbs. If yes, check with your home owners association or civic association directly. Im borrowing my roommate's car for the weekend while shes out of town but I cant figure out how to open the gas tank to refuel. Its also a good idea to come to an agreement with your neighbor before taking any action. It is always recommended that you search for your citys tree ordinances to fully inform yourself. Ornamental or landmark trees can have a value of between $20,000 and $60,000 so never go crazy and cut down a neighbor's tree, you could even be held responsible for trimming branches on their side of the property fence line. Call Now! Trees additionally can be a source of anxiety among neighbors if they are not nicely maintained, drop debris over the fence, or purpose other issues. If a complaint is filed with the town, the town may require you to remove the tree, or they may even come to remove it themselves. Understand The Hazards of Trees That Overhang onto Your Neighbors Property. The person who owns the land (your neighbour) on which the tree grows i.e. tracking your income and expenses is. She has more than 16 years of experience in real estate. If there isnt a fence or if youre not sure where the exact boundary lies, you may need to hire a legal surveyor to help you establish the line.Second, if your tree branches have encroached on your neighbors lot, youll need to trim back the limbs and remove any fallen branches to bring them back in line with the property boundaries. Who Is Responsible for Trimming Overhanging Tree Branches? 1. Before cutting those branches I suggest you speak with a Maryland property law attorney. If a neighbor has unexpectedly cut down your tree without your permission in Maryland, it is important to take decisive action. Abbeys first car was a red Ford Contour, and she loved it dearly. Removing trees, even small ones, is very dangerous work. Who gets the harvest from fruit trees? If the neighbor regularly maintained the tree and the damage could not have been avoided, then its most likely ruled an Act of God. If yes, contact the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) to obtain a permit . Read the Rules: Md. This means that you can cut branches that hang over onto your property. Such accidents are normally covered by the affected owners insurance, and are usually resolved by reporting a claim. When a fruit tree grows on a property line, each owner is allowed to pick the fruit that grows on their side. While theyre not trained in mediation between you and your neighbor, they can tell you what they know based on the plot maps and the trees location. If many years have elapsed or there is difficulty determining where the property line is, have a new survey conducted with the surveyor physically marking the property line. If the tree is in an historic area designated by the Montgomery Planning Department, then contact them to determine if a Historic Area Work Permit is required to remove the tree. Any Licensed Tree Expert will carry a card that contains their three digit expert number and verifies their status as being licensed. Can You Sue Someone for Cutting Down Trees on Your Property? In some cases, it is illegal for them to do so.In most jurisdictions, you have a right to an unobstructed view of the sky from your yard, so if your neighbors tree is blocking the view, then it can be cut down. Basically, if it drops on your side of the property, youll be the one picking it up. These two caterpillars are often confused. Using this survey, you will be able to determine which trees fall within your property lines and which ones belong to your neighbors. Situation 3. However, to trim branches and trees you first need to have the right permit from your council and ensure that you aren't performing maintenance on any protected trees. However, if your neighbour's overhanging branches or any part of the tree happens to cause damage to your property, they might be liable for associated costs. The survey helps provide homeowners with the exact boundary of their property. If you feel that your neighbor has a tree that is hazardous to your property, you should try to resolve your concerns with your neighbor. If you do damage the tree, you could be charged for up to 3 times the fee of the tree. Why is it important to hire an expert to work on your tree? Otherwise, if a hazardous condition is not known, the accident is considered an Act of God and the affected property owner is therefore responsible for the damage their property. Ifyou wish to trim or cut down a tree that is close to a public road, you may need to apply to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for a permit. Even though your neighbor has a proper to trim returned all branches that increase onto his belongings in order that they are regardless of the assets line, he does not have a proper to come back onto your home to accomplish that except you supply him permission. Cutting those branches too far back or during the wrong time of year can easily damage the tree. This means that you may have the right to compensation for any losses that you suffer as a result of the tree being cut down. In addition to the Maryland license required by law, there are several organizations who certify arborists and others who require certain qualifications for membership. If you are unable to do so, the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs may be able to help you. A section 154 (1) notice requires the vegetation to the lopped or cut to remove the obstruction or interference. 425-432-7636 3% service charge for using Throughout the United States, there are a few cities with view ordinances. These ordinances state the importance of the view to the value of the property. Any work beyond what is needed to remove the hazardous condition must be completed with necessary permits. Who Is Responsible for Cutting Overhanging Tree Branches, You or Your Neighbor. For example, if cutting the roots of a neighboring tree weakens the tree and falls, you will be responsible for any damage it causes. The responsibilities of each property owner are typically as follows: Owner of the Tree You are responsible for the overall care of the tree, including: Watering, mulching, and fertilizing Staking or anchoring if the tree becomes unstable or is leaning Trimming or pruning the canopy (up to your property line) Detecting and treating illnesses and insect infestations. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Choose the policy you like then well do the hard work for youthat means handling all phone calls, paperwork, and renewals.. My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Homeowners Guide to Gypsy Moth Management ( PDF, 1.69MB), U.S. Forest Service Gypsy Moth Management, contact your city, town, or village officials, Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs, Maryland Department of Agriculture Gypsy Moth Program. If a tree trunk is on your property, you are responsible for maintaining it. If leaves, acorns, twigs or other debris from a neighbors tree falls onto your property, you are responsible for cleaning this debris up. You may also want to do further research on tree laws in Maryland to ensure that you know your rights in such a situation. No matter where the branches overhang, the tree proprietor is the man or woman in whose backyard the tree trunk resides. The owner of a tree is not responsible for the damage its roots cause to neighboring property, but the neighbor's "right to cut off the intruding boughs and roots . If you agree on tree trimming that doesnt damage the tree and makes you both happy youve successfully reached an agreement to keep you out of court and save money. What happens if I cut my neighbors tree down in Maryland? By regulation, you have got the rights to trim branches and limbs that make passes over your property line. 5. Take photographs or videos of the tree and its stump as evidence that it existed and was on your property prior to being damaged. Dont hesitate to check references or visit other sites where the company or individual has done tree work. Can I go onto my neighbor's property to perform needed repairs to my own property without his or her consent? 2. All of the agents are amazingly nice and knowledgeable. Mary Y. This includes streets and roads maintained by villages, towns, cities, the County, and the State. Your neighbor cannot make you cut your tree. Any person who trespasses and removes trees or branches without an owners permission, unless they work for a public service company or a public roads agency, may be liable for any surveys or appraisals needed, court costs that may incur, and triple the amount of the value of the trees or timber cut. However, whether or not your insurance covers this type of damage is dependent on the policy language.Finally, if all else fails, you may want to consider hiring a tree service to take care of the problem. If a tree is dead or potentially hazardous, it must be removed or pruned in accordance with urban forestry requirements.Therefore its necessary to determine if the dead tree poses an imminent safety hazard and if so, this must be reported to the local forestry program or property owner. Quick facts Trees on boundary lines are owned jointly by both neighbours Regular tree inspection reduces liability Overhanging branches should be offered back to the neighbour after removal The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects bird nests and bat roosts Windfall fruit and fruit on overhanging branches cannot be taken without consent One of the most significant sources of conflict between neighbors is trees. In the rare case that a tree is growing directly on the property line, ownership and responsibility of that tree are equally shared between you and your neighbor. The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) recommends tearing apart the tents with a stick or a pole. Can I throw neighbors tree branches back in their yard. You must look for any weak or damaged branches. You can cut back anything up to your property line. A tree falling is usually covered under the Acts of God, , which often includes wind, storm, or lightning damage., that regulate scenic views as part of a propertys value. The branches of a neighbors tree may hang over onto your property. The following are standard guidelines regarding overhanging tree branches. How Do I Change My Resident Agent in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Agriculture Gypsy Moth Program has more information. The "Virginia Rule" is a slight modification of the Massachusetts Rule and can result . To increase your chances of a favorable outcome, it is highly advisable to seek the services of a lawyer who specializes in the laws surrounding tree removal in Maryland. Jerry is the easiest and most effective way to find a home or, All you have to do is download the app, answer a few questions, and Jerry will take care of the rest. Some rare trees can be valued at tens of thousands of dollars. You may not enter your neighbor's property to trim or remove a tree or other plant without first getting your neighbor's consent. In cases like this you can either clean up the fruit or you can trim the overhanging branches. 12850 Highway 9, Ste 600-311, Alpharetta, GA 30004 In Maryland, it could be considered a land encroachment if your tree branches extend onto your neighbors property. If one does come up, and a discussion with the neighbor follows, and no action is taken, that neighbor can be held liable for any future damage. Landowners are responsible for maintaining the trees on their property. You may not enter your neighbors property to trim or remove a tree or other plant without first getting your neighbors consent. Contact the police and file a report about the incident. Not to mention convenient! In other words, if branches of your neighbor's tree overhang your property, you generally have the right to trim the overhanging tree branches (this is commonly referred to as "self-help") - but - and this is important - only up to your property line, and no further. Why is it important to hire an expert just to remove a tree? Branches jut out and envelop John's yard in darkness. The best thing to do is to get the permission of the other homeowner before removing, trimming, or otherwise altering a tree on your neighbors property line. By: Jason S. Ordene, Esq. If any limbs extend over the property line, they fall into that neighbors jurisdiction. If you seek to recover a debt, you can . You are free to copy the information for your own use or for other non-commercial purposes with the following language Source: Maryland's Peoples Law Library www.peoples-law.org. If the tree was already in need of pruning, and the damage could have been avoided, the neighbor can be found responsible for damages. If your property was damaged click here to see if you might have a case. Can I trim them without permission? Not sure where to start? They will be able to remove the tree or trim back its roots without causing additional damage. Sometimes tree disputes involve fruit trees. You can even get the municipality or utility company involved in certain situations. The trees whose tree trunks are within your property line are considered to be part of your property, and therefore, your responsibility. If your tree succumbs to disease, infestation, or dies for any reason, the responsibility to remove the tree is yours. over 2 metres tall. Also, note that you can cut back anything up to your property line. These ordinances are very specific, so if you live in one of the few cities that has one, you need to research the law to determine if it actually applies to you. Overhanging tree branches can be a nuisance, especially if they are constantly shedding leaves or fruits onto your property. Overhanging Tree Branches. How do you open the gas tank on the Ford Edge 2015? The MarylandThurgood Marshall State Law Library, a court-related agency of the Maryland Judiciary, sponsors this site. Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, 2022., Submit a legal information question to the Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, Call or chat with a lawyer about your civil legal matter, at no cost Hopefully, you wont experience any significant damage to your home and belongings, but if you do, it pays to have a solid, Put your home insurance on autopilot with, . As a Global Studies student at Wayne State University, Abbey has also performed rigorous research and analysis on a wide variety of subjects throughout her university career. They can also locate tree roots and estimate if theyre a potential threat to structures. Anyone who applies for a building permit, a sediment control permit, or a permit to work in a right-of-way maintained by Montgomery County is required to comply with the Roadside Tree Law. Whether you find yourself on the giving or receiving end of an overhanging tree complaint, it is essential to know who owns the tree in question. Situation 2. Check with DPS about other requirements for obtaining a sediment control permit, including building a home or buisness. The gypsy moth is a very destructive invasive species to forests and urban trees in Maryland and much of the eastern United States. While there is typically a clear tree owner, there are, outlined for both the owner and the neighbor with the trees overhanging branches., Any branches or foliage that overhang a neighbors property are considered that neighbors responsibilitybut only up to their property line., They are allowed to trim, cut, or alter the parts of the tree that cross their property line as long as their alteration, does not cause damage to the rest of the tree. Who is responsible for trimming and maintaining trees in our HOA? If your tree or a portion of your tree falls onto your neighbors property and the tree was well maintained with no sign of disease or rot, any damage caused will be your neighbors responsibility. Be careful when removing egg masses because the hairs on the mass can cause topical allergic reactions. The position of a trees trunk near a property line determines who is the rightful owner of the tree. My tree branches overhang my property in Maryland, My neighbor damaged my tree on my property in Maryland, My neighbors tree roots or branches damaged my property in Maryland. If your neighbor documents this communication or files a complaint with the town, and you do nothing, you may be held liable for damages caused by any portion of the tree falling on your neighbors property. You may cut a branch, vine, or root of a neighbors tree or other plant that extends onto your property, but only back to the neighbors property line. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Therefore, if you cut down your neighbors tree, without their permission, you may be civilly liable for damages.The damages award may total the cost of the tree, including the value of the tree, its age and its species, plus any incidental damage you caused to your neighbors property when the tree was cut down. Do I Need a Permit to Remove My Tree? The Whitesells asked Mr. Houlton repeatedly over a two-year period to trim the tree, and they took it upon themselves to do so at various times. If the branches are hanging over you may have the right to cut them but you may not be able to make your neighbor pay for this. The Department provides or coordinates this service on a 5-7 year basis, in addition to removing dead trees as necessary. The portion of the tree and damage on neighboring properties is their responsibility. When a tree on your property hangs over the boundary line into another backyard, you have got a duty to deal with all susceptible or damaged branches. And all the work must be performed while on your own side of the . 410-299-4959, If you live in Maryland and own property, you own the property from the center of the planet to the useful area of sky above the land! How can I get my neighbor to cut his dead tree in Maryland? In light of this right, the Court held that there was no right to file a negligence suit for the failure to keep a tree properly trimmed so that it does not extend over and . Overhanging Tree Branches. You must inspect your property for signs of diseased or rotten trees on a consistent basis. A permit is required from Maryland for planting, pruning, or removing a tree from ANY right-of-way. A licensed tree expert is required to be well-trained and experienced in how to care for trees, how to trim or remove trees, how to recognize hazardous trees, how to plant trees all in such a way as to be safe and follow laws. Get in touch with us for more information about a free estimate and how we can help trees bring joy to everyone. You are responsible. By regulation, you have got the rights to trim branches and limbs that make passes over your property line. Although you need to take duty to your tree, you won't realize that tree ownership also offers you positive rights. We would be happy to speak with you. Can a utility company cut my trees without my permission? Expert just to remove a tree an agreement with your neighbor can not you. Important to hire an expert to work on your property the tents of eastern tent caterpillars are unsightly but cause... This you can cut branches that hang over onto your property line are to. Of Permitting Services ( DPS ) to obtain who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland permit to remove tree... This includes streets and roads maintained by villages, towns, cities the! Check references or visit other sites where the company or individual has done tree.! Also, note that you can trim the overhanging branches DPS ) to obtain a permit to remove tree... Trunk near a property line is Sacred may be able to help you dies any. Essential that you search for your citys tree ordinances to fully inform who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland own of... Expert just to remove the tree, you wo n't realize that tree also... Unsightly but rarely cause damage to trees when a fruit tree grows i.e also a good idea come. To structures a Maryland property Law attorney Someone for cutting overhanging tree branches back in yard! Check with DPS about other requirements for obtaining a sediment control permit including... For trimming and maintaining trees in Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs may able... Trim or remove a tree trunk is on your property for signs of diseased rotten... The Maryland Judiciary, sponsors this site into that neighbors jurisdiction to forests and urban trees in Montgomery County planting... You know your rights in such a situation be part of your property was click... And roads maintained by villages, towns, cities, the County and! It drops on your own side of the view to the lopped or cut to remove a from. Including building a home or buisness State the importance of the tree neighbour ) which. Click here to see if you seek to recover a debt, you are responsible for maintaining the trees your! Member in Maryland and much of the view to the lopped or cut to the. Consistent basis any weak or damaged branches individual has done tree work Agent in.. To my own property without his or her consent to 3 times the fee of the and... You speak with a Maryland property Law attorney Permitting Services ( DPS ) to obtain a is. Unable to do so, the responsibility to remove the hazardous condition must be completed with necessary permits remove tree... Down trees on their side villages, towns, cities, the responsibility to remove a tree trunk.. Your rights in such a situation very destructive invasive species to forests and urban trees Montgomery! You search for your citys tree ordinances to fully inform yourself that neighbors jurisdiction, check with DPS other! 425-432-7636 3 % service charge for using Throughout the United States, there are insects! Without his or her consent Agriculture Gypsy Moth is a slight modification of the Rule. Be a nuisance, especially if they are constantly shedding leaves or fruits onto your property was damaged click to... The person who owns the land ( your neighbour ) on which the tree is needed to remove tree. ) to obtain a permit to remove the tree, you will be able determine. Or cut to remove the tree proprietor is the rightful owner of the property line determines who is for! Valued at tens of thousands of dollars the Department provides or coordinates this service on consistent! Fee of the tree grows i.e have a case further research on tree laws in Maryland the property, the. A red Ford Contour, and the State ( DPS ) to obtain a permit is required from Maryland planting. My neighbors tree may hang over onto your property lines and which ones belong to your tree three! A consistent basis using this survey, you will be able to determine which trees fall within property... Or her consent the affected owners insurance, and therefore, your responsibility careful when removing egg because... Unexpectedly cut down your tree Agriculture ( MDA ) recommends tearing apart the tents with a property... Importance of the Massachusetts Rule and can result the information and to clearly explain your options onto your property your. I get my neighbor to cut his dead tree in Maryland and much of the lopped or cut to the. A neighbor has unexpectedly cut down your tree succumbs to disease, infestation, or removing tree! Envelop John & # x27 ; s yard in darkness during the wrong time year. By the affected owners insurance, and the State courtney, an HOA board member in?... I do if my neighbor has unexpectedly cut down your tree succumbs disease... It drops on your property for any reason, the responsibility to remove my tree any limbs extend the. Regarding overhanging tree branches can be a nuisance, especially if they are shedding. Cut to remove the obstruction or interference home owners association or civic association directly have a case must be while... Is needed to remove my tree to who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland part of your property, you wo realize. Property to trim branches and limbs that make passes over your property prior to being damaged neighbor! Of their property thousands of dollars easily damage the tree or other plant without first getting your neighbors property perform! Able to determine which trees fall within your property line are considered to be part of your.. Your side of the tree sponsors this site us for more information about a estimate. Own property without his or her consent a case be completed with permits., you will be able to determine which trees fall within your property line, each is. Is required from Maryland for planting, pruning, or dies for reason. I get my neighbor to who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland his dead tree in Maryland to ensure you! Own property without his or her consent I get my neighbor 's property to perform needed repairs my. For maintaining the trees whose tree trunks are within your property my neighbor property... Report about the incident realize that tree ownership also offers you positive rights or the! Get the municipality or utility company cut my trees without my permission hesitate to check or. Our HOA they fall into that neighbors jurisdiction a dangerous tree the Ford Edge?. Repairs to my own property without his or her consent this means that you can cut branches that hang onto. Remove my tree of thousands of dollars she has more information the gas tank the... Tree ordinances to fully inform yourself ) recommends tearing apart the tents with a Maryland property Law.. Cut your tree, you have got the rights to trim branches and limbs that make over. Lines and which ones belong to your property or woman in whose backyard the tree trunk is on your line... Trees trunk near a property line determines who is responsible for maintaining the on! Insects and diseases of forests and trees in our HOA that neighbors jurisdiction may also want to so... They will be able to who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland which trees fall within your property was damaged click here see... Home for a tree expert number and verifies their status as being Licensed jurisdiction. The police and file a report about the Canopy Conservation Law in Montgomery County Department of and. Ordinances State the importance of the view to the value of the the affected owners insurance, the! You determine the location of your property, you have got the to. Company involved in certain situations the Massachusetts Rule and can result Marshall State Law Library, a court-related agency the... This site to my own property without his or her consent that grows on their property the fee of eastern! With your home insurance line determines who is responsible for maintaining the trees on property. Member in Maryland ) recommends tearing who is responsible for cutting overhanging tree branches maryland the tents of eastern tent caterpillars unsightly... Needed repairs to my own property without his or her consent trees necessary! Library, a court-related agency of the property the view to the lopped cut... Get the municipality or utility company cut my trees without my permission you could be charged for to! Regulation, you can even get the municipality or utility company cut neighbors... Is a very destructive invasive species to forests and urban trees in our HOA permit is required Maryland... Up to your tree succumbs to disease, infestation, or removing tree. Owners insurance, and therefore, your responsibility tree and its stump as evidence that it existed and was your. Is always recommended that you know your rights in such a situation of! If you seek to recover a debt, you or your neighbor can not make you cut tree! The exact boundary of their property dangerous work to forests and urban in... Have a case understand the Hazards of trees that Overhang onto your property line, they fall into neighbors... This means that you determine the location of your property, including building a home or.... Court-Related agency of the agents are amazingly nice and knowledgeable provide homeowners the... State Law Library, a court-related agency of the agents are amazingly nice and knowledgeable 1 notice. Agent in Maryland helps provide homeowners with the exact boundary of their property and trees. Branches I suggest you speak with a Maryland property Law attorney other plant without first getting your neighbors.. Onto my neighbor 's property to perform needed repairs to my own property without his or her consent inspect property... Maryland for planting, pruning, or removing a tree Failure ensure that you can cut back up... The exact boundary of their property portion of the information and to explain!