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Tree ownership Responsibilities Blog post. When viewed through a human lens trees do not seem to move or grow very quickly. For this reason they can often blend into the back ground and appear as part of the static scenery.
Your dog on the other hand is not hard to miss. Dogs are able to command your attention easily as they run and jump around. A well trained dog and tree do have some similarities though.
What are Tree ownership responsibilities?
Although unlikely, they both have the potential to cause harm. For this reason both dog ownership and tree ownership come with certain responsibilities.
Understanding your responsibilities and acting on them helps to prevent any harm from happening. This blog will cover some of your responsibilities as a tree owner.
The main responsibilities of a tree owner are to ensure that your tree does not cause harm to anyone or their property. To ensure that your tree is not a nuisance to other people.
People have certain rights with regards to safety from dangerous trees. Trees that may be negatively impacting their health, or trees that are deemed as an unreasonable nuisance.
Neighbours are allowed to prune your tree back the boundary
Assuming it is not scheduled or protected in some other way. They are also able to apply for a court order for you to prune your tree if it is deemed dangerous or an unreasonable nuisance.
These processes can be costly and take time so it is always best to talk to your neighbours first. If you own trees have a chat with your neighbours to see if they affect the quality of their living.
If your neighbour owns a tree that is impacting your quality of living speak to them first. They may not even be aware of how their tree is affecting you.
As a tree owner its your responsibility to ensure all trees are kept clear of power lines.
If your tree damages the lines you may be liable for repair costs. Regulations can differ slightly between regions so it is best to check with your local power supplier for more information. Any tree work around power lines needs to be undertaken by suitably qualified and experienced arborists.
So make sure you check for these before you contract a company to clear your lines. In all these instances, having a qualified arborist inspect you trees regularly can ensure you meet your responsibilities as a tree owner.
A skilled arborist will be able to advise solutions that keep everyone happy. You, your neighbours and the tree.
For more information regarding the responsibilities of tree ownership please see the following links:
- https://communitylaw.org.nz/community-law-manual/chapter-10-neighbour-disputes/trees/
- https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/trees-and-neighbours
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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