Tree removal Brisbane – know your rights with neighbour’s trees

As Brisbane tree loppers, one of our most frequent jobs is to trim trees that are causing problems to a neighbour. It is fair to say that most of the time neighbours are really friendly and help each other out, but every now and again a problem arises that can put that friendship to the test.

One of these issues is the problem of branches overhanging from a neighbour’s yard, which can rapidly turn ugly, ending in fierce arguments and even court.

So if you are a home owner, it is important to know your rights concerning the trees on your  neighbour’s property, as this is the best way to sort out any problems quickly.

My neighbour’s trees are a problem – can I just call in the tree loppers?

Yes you can, but there are a few points you need to clarify first, before you either take on the job yourself or engage professional tree loppers in Brisbane.

You need to check if the offending tree has a VPO (vegetation protection order), because if it does – you will be fined by the council if you cut or remove any of the branches. In this case you need to contact your council to discuss the problem with your neighbour’s tree.

Next, trees in your neighbour’s yard can only be trimmed, lopped or removed if one or more of the following conditions exists:

• The tree interferes with your TV or satellite reception or the operation of your solar panels.
• If the branches are more than 2.5 metres above the ground and they either obstruct sunlight from your windows and roof or they obstruct a view which existed before your neighbour moved into the property.
• The trees cause a significant build-up of tree litter in your yard (more than normally expected).

Give your neighbour written notice, before calling in the tree loppers in Brisbane

If any of these conditions exist, then you are entitled to trim the offending branches to the fence line. On the other hand, if you need to enter your neighbour’s property to trim the trees, then you must give your neighbour at least 24 hours written notice.

This notice should include the name of the Brisbane tree loppers who will do the work, the date and time of the job and it must be completed within 30 days of this notice, preferably between 8am and 5pm.

One final, but very important point is that as you are contracting a tree lopper in Brisbane to enter your neighbour’s property, you need to make sure that the tree loppers have the right type of insurances, in case of any problems.

For more information on Brisbane tree loppers, call us on 07 3999 9851, email us at info@treezy.com.au or complete our online enquiry form.