The law states that any branches cut off belong to the person on whose land the tree originally grew, so you should ask your neighbour if they want them back, or if they are happy for you to dispose of them. Do not just throw trimmings back over the boundary – this could constitute ‘fly tipping’.
Who is responsible for overhanging tree branches?
Overhanging Branches on Your Property
Even if the tree trunk is on your neighbor’s property, you have the responsibility for cutting any branches that extend onto your property line. You are responsible for the cost of cutting any branches you choose to trim. You can cut back anything up to your property line.
Whose responsibility is it to cut overhanging tree branches?
The person who owns the land (your neighbour) on which the tree grows i.e. where the base of the tree is, owns the tree and is responsible for it, but is not necessarily responsible for felling the tree or pruning branches that overhang their neighbours’ (your) property, even if these are seen to be causing a problem.
Can my Neighbour cut my tree without asking?
Yes. The basic rule is that someone who cuts down, removes, or hurts a tree without permission owes the tree’s owner money to compensate for the harm done. You can sue to enforce that right, but you probably won’t have to, once you tell your neighbor what the law is.