Sharing a fence line with your neighbor next door can be a blessing and a curse at times. Figuring out where your property ends and what you're legally allowed to do gets confusing fast. You've probably run into this when painting your side of a shared fence or chopping back overhanging branches.
But what can you do if your neighbor’s plants are starting to take over your yard?
While hacking away at whatever crosses the fence seems like an easy fix, you'll want to double-check the rules first. Plus, who's stuck cleaning up the mess?
To prevent a neighborly dispute, I asked experts about the legal rules around encroaching greenery. How should you handle invasive plants from next door, and what is the best way to address the issue with your neighbor?
According to experts, you can trim it yourself, but only cut the foliage that extends to your property line. And if there is any uncertainty, it’s advisable to get a land surveyor in to determine your boundaries.
“I recommend looking up a plot of your property or hiring a land surveyor to ensure that you accurately identify the boundary,” suggests Yury Byalik, J.D., founder of CivilCase.
“Only cut what extends onto your property; you could potentially owe compensation to your neighbor if you go too far and cause the tree to die or fall. Be careful with weed killers, too. Intentionally spraying a neighbor’s tree may result in triple damages!”
So, what precautions should I take when cutting back my neighbor's invasive plants?
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