Overhanging Trees and Hedges

My neighbour has overhanging trees and hedges that extend into my garden and they refuse to cut them. I would like to prune the branches myself as they are obstructing my view. Can I legally do this without securing my neighbours permission? May I dispose of the cuttings or should I give them back to my neighbour?

Unfortunately, trees and hedges often cause much friction between neighbours. Ideally, the best way to resolve any issue you may have with overhanging trees would be to speak directly with your neighbour. A friendly discussion may result in an amicable arrangement to everyone’s satisfaction.

Legally, a landowner may cut off any tree branches which over-hang into his property without giving prior notice to the owner of the tree. However, you may not cut down the tree entirely nor may you enter onto your neighbour’s property for the purpose of cutting branches without your neighbour’s permission.

Whilst pruning overhanging branches it is important to take care not to render the tree dangerous. Further, you may only cut on the side of and up to your boundary line. It is illegal to ring bark or otherwise damage the tree to such an extent so as to cause the tree to die or decay.

All tree cuttings should be offered back to your neighbour. If your neighbour does not want the cuttings, they must be disposed of in a responsible manner. You may not leave the cuttings on your neighbour’s property without their permission.

Locations

ATHLONE

Oak House,
39-41 Mardyke Street,
Athlone,
Co. Westmeath
N37 TA44

Tel: (090) 647 8433
Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie

GALWAY

9 Gray Office Park,
Galway Retail Park,
Headford Road,
Galway City
H91 WC1P

Tel: (091) 511 421
Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie

DUBLIN

24–26
Upper Ormond Quay,
Dublin 7

Tel: (090) 647 8433
Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie

MOATE

Main Street,
Moate,
Co. Westmeath
N37 EW70

Tel: (090) 648 2090
Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie

LANESBOROUGH

Main Street,
Lanesborough,
Co. Longford
N39 C8Y7

Tel: (043) 332 1200
Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie

Scroll to Top