Can I Get a Ticket If I Don’t Cut My Trees?
Why Tree Maintenance Matters
Trees add beauty, shade, and value to any property, but neglecting them can become a liability. Overgrown or damaged trees may:
- Block sidewalks or roads
- Interfere with power lines
- Damage neighboring property
- Drop branches, creating a safety hazard
- Obstruct traffic signs or stoplights
- Violate city codes or homeowners association (HOA) rules
What starts as an innocent oversight can quickly turn into a municipal violation — especially if someone gets hurt or reports the issue.
When Can You Be Fined for Not Cutting Trees?
Laws vary depending on your city, county, or HOA, but here are the most common situations where you might face a fine:
1. Branches Blocking Sidewalks or Roads
If your tree’s branches hang low over the sidewalk or extend into the street, you may receive a citation for obstructing public pathways. Municipal codes often require a minimum clearance — for example, 7–8 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above roads.
2. Interference with Power Lines
In many areas, utility companies are responsible for trimming trees near power lines, but homeowners can still be cited if:
- They plant trees too close to lines in the first place
- They fail to notify the utility company of a growing hazard
- The overgrowth creates immediate risk (e.g., a branch touching live wires)
Penalties vary, but ignoring this situation can lead to dangerous power outages or fires — and legal liability.
3. Dead or Hazardous Trees
If a tree is visibly dead, rotting, or leaning dangerously, local inspectors may label it a hazardous tree and issue a notice requiring its removal or trimming. Failure to act can lead to:
- Fines
- Forced removal at your expense
- Legal claims if someone is injured
4. Complaints from Neighbors
Even if your city doesn’t proactively enforce tree ordinances, a neighbor’s complaint can trigger a visit from code enforcement. This is especially common when:
- Tree limbs hang over property lines
- Roots damage sidewalks, driveways, or fences
- Falling leaves or sap create a nuisance
If your tree is deemed a “private nuisance,” you could be required to fix the issue — or risk a lawsuit.
5. Violation of HOA Rules
If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), you may have specific tree trimming requirements in your community bylaws. These rules are enforceable through:
- Warning notices
- Fines
- Suspension of community privileges
- Legal action for non-compliance
Who Issues Tree-Related Tickets?
Depending on your location, a ticket or fine may be issued by:
- City or county code enforcement officers
- Public works departments
- Tree inspectors or urban forestry divisions
- HOA board members (in private communities)
- Utility companies (in extreme safety cases)
Typically, you’ll receive a written notice or warning first, giving you a chance to correct the issue. If you don’t take action within a specific time frame (often 10 to 30 days), you could receive:
- A formal citation
- A daily accruing fine
- Mandatory cleanup by the city (with a bill sent to you)
Tips to Avoid Tree-Related Tickets
Here’s how you can stay safe, legal, and on good terms with your neighbors:
Inspect Your Trees Regularly
Walk your property at least once a season and look for:
- Low-hanging limbs
- Signs of rot or decay
- Branches near wires or rooftops
- Trees leaning or lifting roots
Know Your Local Tree Ordinances
Check your city or county website, or call your local public works or code enforcement office to ask:
- What are the height clearance rules?
- Who trims trees near utility lines?
- Are permits required for removal or major trimming?
Hire a Professional Tree Service
If you’re unsure or the tree is large/damaged, hire a certified arborist or licensed tree trimming service. They’ll know how to trim safely and comply with local codes.
Respond Promptly to Notices
If you receive a warning or complaint, don’t ignore it. Contact the proper agency, ask for clarification, and take action within the required timeframe.
What If I Rent or Don’t Own the Property?
Tenants should report any tree hazards to their landlord immediately. However, depending on your lease and local laws, you could still be responsible for general yard maintenance, including keeping walkways clear or trimming small branches.
Always check your lease agreement and notify your landlord in writing if you spot a problem.