Tree Pruning on property line - Ask Extension
Hi,
I have two ornamental cherries that are rooted on my property at the property line. About 1/2 the canopy is on our side and 1/2 is on the other s...
Knowledgebase
Tree Pruning on property line #923312
Asked January 04, 2026, 11:22 PM EST
Hi,
I have two ornamental cherries that are rooted on my property at the property line. About 1/2 the canopy is on our side and 1/2 is on the other side. Both sides need pruning for shape. Easy to do my side, but am I responsible for maintaining the canopy one the neighbor’s side, as well? I couldn’t find a specific law regarding the City of Salem regarding who is responsible, so I thought I’d ask you.
Thanks!
Barb
Polk County Oregon
Expert Response
Thanks for reaching out. I would encourage you to connect with the City of Salem for specific property and tree laws: <personal data hidden>
Generally, the neighbor is not obligated to shape/thin/prune any overhanging trees but has the legal right to prune/remove branches to the property line. So the neighbor does not have to do shaping or thinning cuts but can remove any branches that overhang their property. You would need permission to go on their property to do any pruning to that side of the tree.
Have you connected with the neighbor to talk through the situation?
Generally, the neighbor is not obligated to shape/thin/prune any overhanging trees but has the legal right to prune/remove branches to the property line. So the neighbor does not have to do shaping or thinning cuts but can remove any branches that overhang their property. You would need permission to go on their property to do any pruning to that side of the tree.
Have you connected with the neighbor to talk through the situation?
Thank-you, that was very helpful. I know and get along with my neighbor.
On Jan 5, 2026, at 11:14 AM, Ask Extension wrote:
