The rights and responsibilities of a tree owner
Urban spaces need trees. They provide food and shelter for wildlife, improve air quality, and enhance our neighbourhoods and landscape. They can also block drains and gutters, undermine walls and foundations, block the light and view, and, occasionally, fall.
The trees on your property can be a wonderful asset, however they can also pose a big risk to structures and people if they have not been cared for. If you are a property owner, you have the right to use and enjoy your land as you want, but so do your neighbours.
Trees that border your neighbours’ properties, or public spaces like roads or parks, will affect these areas.
As a tree owner it is your responsibility to ensure your trees are properly maintained.
This can include work to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as regular pruning to improve the tree’s health and reduce the risk of failure. A tree that has been neglected can become hazardous and potentially cause damage or injury. Trees whose branches or roots encroach on a neighbouring property can be cut back to the boundary line, but the tree must not be damaged or killed. Cuttings and fruit belong to the tree owner, no matter how tempting the apples overhanging your fence maybe!
We’ve said it before and we will say it again, talk to your neighbours! Understanding your neighbours needs and having a conversation can ensure a solution that suits all parties. You may even get to have some of those apples.
At Beaver Tree Service we can work with you to trim your neighbours’ trees back to boundary lines as well as help you keep your own trees maintained. We will also work with your neighbours’, ensuring they are also getting the best care for their trees. We can help mediate difficult situations and we will never enter a property without permission!
To work with a company who loves trees, who wants you to maintain the best relationship possible with your neighbours, and who understands your rights and responsibilities as a tree owner, call Beaver today!