Who is responsible for trimming limbs on trees

[dave_davis]

My neighbor is demanding that I trim back my tree because it is dropping sap on his car. The tree is at least 25 years old. I told him that if he wanted it trimmed he could have it done and pay for it.

Am I responsible to have the tree trimmed back to my property line and pay for it?

It is not a danger to his property and does not block his view.

Dave
Madera, CA 93636

 

[dee_dub]

You, as the owner of the tree, are responsible for the whole tree. That includes any part of the tree that branches out over your neighbour's property. If it causes any damage to your neighbour, you could be liable.

You say "it is not a danger to his property", but he says it drips sap on his car. I don't know what it costs to clean sap off a car, but he would be within his rights to claim compensation from you for it.