Homeowner Refuses to Remove a Tree with Sentimental Value After Their New Neighbor Demands It Be Cut Down Because It Casts Shade on Their Yard
The two property owners can't seem to come to a decision that satisfies both parties.
If you have a yard, it's only natural that you want to bask under the bright sun from time to time. But what if a neighbor's tree is blocking that much-needed light?
If the tree isn't physically reaching the other person's property, the best solution is for both homeowners to come up with an agreement that makes everyone happy. Other areas in the U.S. can also offer mediation services between neighbors.
The property owner being inconvenienced doesn't have the right to cut down the tree casting shade on their property. Even if they hire an arborist, they cannot trespass on the property to destroy the tree.
If they cut down the tree without the owner's permission, they might end up paying two or three times the value of the tree. In the end, it's all about following the law when addressing a tree that's not on one's property.
A Redditor named Late_Adhesiveness859 wanted to consult the "Am I The A**hole?" community about whether or not he is at fault for not cutting down a tree that casts a shadow over his neighbor's property. The neighbor wants a particular spot for their hot tub.
The tree has sentimental value to the original poster, which is why they can't simply agree to cut it down.
However, the neighbor insists and is even willing to press charges against them.
The apple tree has stood since the original poster's grandparents moved into the property.
Late_Adhesiveness859It holds sentimental value for them.
Late_Adhesiveness859It's not "just" a tree.
Late_Adhesiveness859
The original poster has already explained their side, but for the neighbors, their hot tub is more important.
Late_Adhesiveness859
The neighbor shouldn't have moved in if something that's not on their property is going to be an issue for them.
Lobaby1414, Arisia118
We don't know the specifics of the tree, but the neighbors might not win the case if they file charges against the original poster.
tubbyx7, DuckingGolden
The original poster needs to know the value of the tree in case the neighbor does something illegal.
750More
The original poster also has to take extra steps to protect the apple tree.
johnny9k, dastardy740
These people can't just waltz in and force others to do what they want.
General_Relative2838
The original poster had to warn their neighbors because they might hire someone to cut the tree down without permission.
Late_Adhesiveness859
The Redditors are suggesting some steps to protect the apple tree.
Jovon35
Some neighbors will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Paranoidkitten8
People who love plants and trees understand the original poster's dilemma.
Jovon35
The original poster might need the help of their other neighbors.
JKElemenopee, Late Adhesiveness859
This is for the best. Maybe a call or text would work in case the original poster isn't around.
MontanaPurpleMntns
Apparently, there are many disputes about trees that have led the government to create laws regarding them.
que_he_hecho
If they want the hot tub so much, why not just build it in another spot?
arseholierthanthou, RainbowCrane
The original poster needs to prepare all the necessary records since they now have a problematic neighbor.
ipsos_custodes420
They also need to perform some maintenance procedures for the tree, as it is already old.
Human-Zucchini-618
Let the neighbors waste their money just to get a hot tub.
Shaggymaggie
An Arborist's Take on the Situation
Tom_Marvolo_Tomato
The original poster needs to study all the necessary laws to protect the apple tree.
It has already come to a point where the two parties involved cannot reach an agreement. The only thing left to do is to take the advice of the Redditors so that the original poster can preserve the apple tree.
