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Neighborly Etiquette: Handling Tree Branches Responsibly

In the United States, part of the law prohibits you from throwing the neighbor’s tree branches back into their yard. If caught, you will be judged with “fly-tipping of the garden waste”, which is a punishable mistake in law.

Therefore, the simple answer to the question: “Can I throw neighbors’ tree branches back into their yards?” Is No. Trees conserve the environment and improve the aesthetic appearance of your home. Unfortunately, sometimes it can be the point of conflict between the neighbors.

According to the laws of the land in the United States, if a tree branch is within your property you’re responsible for cleaning it when it’s cut and fixing up your space. If you have annoyance-related problems, please don’t start throwing the neighbor’s tree branches back into their yard so as to pass a personal message and even strengthen and elongate the rivalry.

Your neighbor has the right to demand his tree branches, but you’re not allowed to throw them into their yard. It’s a brilliant idea to consult your neighbor when their tree branches have landed on your property.

Ask them if they feel okay with you throwing them back into their yard. Unfortunately, if you throw three branches back without consulting and getting into an amicable agreement, you will face the full wrath of the law that you might not like. Please don’t be a victim.

Can I Throw Neighbor’s Tree Branches Back In Their Yard? Why It’s Bad

Tree Branches

  • Elicit Conflict between Neighbors

You have two options if you see a tree branch hanging over your neighbor’s yard. First, you can choose to act by doing something; second, you can opt to stay silent and leave the tree branch alone.

If you choose to act, there are higher chances that you can easily upset your neighbor. In addition, if you ask the neighbor to take good care of the tree branches, you will raise their eyebrows and make them think you’re rude or don’t wish them well.

With that said, you will create unending conflict and rivalry if you decide to throw the neighbor’s tree branches back into their yard. That act will tell them that you don’t care about their trees and whatever they have to offer. 

Again, you will be disposing of waste in their yard without their consent. That is punishable in law. Furthermore, the neighbor can easily get annoyed, and the whole thing can lead to a fight and enmity.

It’s good to get along well with your neighbor. If tree branches are hanging over or falling onto your property, talk with your neighbor and see how you can solve the problem without starting other unnecessary issues.

  • You will call Cause Uncontrolled Tree Growth

Branches usually hang over the neighbor’s property because they are trying to grow their way into the new spot. When you bed the neighbor’s tree branches and throw them back, you will encourage them to grow in that direction. That can make the tree branches grow uncontrollably in the neighbor’s yard.

Some neighbors are ready to maintain their trees, and others want their yards to be free of plants. If you alter anyone’s landscaping, you will cause many problems that are hard to solve.

  • Tree Branches are Heavy, and They Can Cause Damages

You might think you’re helping your neighbor by throwing the branch over. Unfortunately, tree branches, especially wet ones, are very heavy and can easily break your limbs or trunk. That is the most serious damage that will cost you your entire life. 

The heavy tree branches that have been forced to rest on the other side of the fence also pose danger to the individuals walking under or close to the tree.

  • Illegal and It Can Cause Serious Injuries

Most United States cities have laws prohibiting throwing the neighbor’s tree branches back in their yard. According to some states, if the neighbor’s tree branches are touching your property, you need to contact the forestry department.

Apart from breaking the law by throwing the neighbor’s tree branches back in their yard, you’re also susceptible to serious injuries because you might be handling the three without the protective gear.

In addition, reckless handling of tree branches can make them return with a huge force because of elasticity. If it hits any part of your body, you will sustain severe injuries.

  • You, Will, Destroy the Branches and Harm the Tree

Do you know that trees can feel pain? They can feel pain just like humans because they have a nervous system. You cause harm to a tree when you hurl a branch. When you do this frequently, the tree may lose some of its ability to fight against infections and other problems. 

That makes the tree die too soon. If you damage your neighbor’s trees, you cause many problems for yourself and your family. Again the tree will no longer shade you from the sun or supply you with oxygens.

  • The Branch Can Harm Your Neighbor’s Lawn or Garden

There is a chance that a branch you throw back can land on your neighbor’s lawn or garden. The toxins in the branch might harm the plants in the neighbor’s yard.

You shouldn’t throw the tree branch back if you don’t want to do damage to your neighbor’s yard. Instead, use a rake or a shovel to carefully remove it, then put it in a trash pit as yard garbage.

The Bottom Line

Tree Branches

It would be best if you consider consulting your neighbor about chopping off or throwing back the tree branches. Respectfully inquire about their plans and if they have time to do what it’s required. Discuss with them if they are flexible if you offer to take the branches to the landfill.

You may also offer to dispose of the neighbor’s tree branches if they aren’t interested in trimming them. Ask them whether they’d be okay with you transporting the branches to their yard for them to dump. If they’re not interested, dispose of them within your yard.

If they consent to you chopping off the tree branches and disposing of them on their behalf, you must be cautious since you shouldn’t combine them with ordinary garbage. Instead, consider visiting the office of your community tree service provider and ask them the best area to dispose of broken tree branches. You can also contact your city forestry department to get directions if you’re unsure of what to do.