THIS IS NOT LAW ADVICE - IF THIS HAPPENS TO YOU, SPEAK TO AN ACTUAL LAWYER

It's a scenario we've seen in movies and sitcoms growing up. And, more recently, in TikToks and Reels on social media.

Your neighbor has a tree that has grown too wide and now they have branches that hang over into your backyard.

What can you do? I mean, legally, what are you allowed to do?

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On one hand, their branches are in your yard so do you have the right to trim them if you don't want them in your yard?

On the flipside, the tree belongs to the neighbor so are you allowed to trim the branches even though it's not your tree?

WA Laws on Branches Into Your Yard

There are a few Washington State laws to consider including RCW 64.12.030: Injury to or removing trees, etc.—Damages.

Whenever any person shall cut down, girdle, or otherwise injure, or carry off any tree, including a Christmas tree as defined in *RCW 76.48.020, timber, or shrub on the land of another person, or on the street or highway in front of any person's house, city or town lot, or cultivated grounds, or on the commons or public grounds of any city or town, or on the street or highway in front thereof, without lawful authority, in an action by the person, city, or town against the person committing the trespasses or any of them, any judgment for the plaintiff shall be for treble the amount of damages claimed or assessed.

You can trim so long as it's on your side, but you're not allowed to go into their property and trim and definitely nothing malicious to harm their tree or you'll be liable for damages.

You can also refer to RCW 35.21.310: Removal of overhanging or obstructing vegetation—Removal, destroying debris. This one more covers keeping everything safe from city property like city streets, sidewalks and the like.

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Gallery Credit: Vinnie Martone

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