Neighbours Eucalyptus tree

[xion]

Our neighbour as a Eucalyptus tree very close to our fence which as grown to about 50ft and the high branches over hang our garden and cast a long shadow.The tree appears to be growing at an alarming rate. The ground next to our fence as become very dry and we are worried about the roots. The tree is about 6ft from our garage and about 20ft from our house.We have spoken to our neighbour but he does not appear to be interested in doing anything about it. What can be done without causing a dispute?

[askyourgran]

Have a word with your local council, the height of the tree may be enough for them to approach the neighbour about cutting it down. In the short term they may be able to advise you about your rights to cut the overhanging branches on your property.

[cassa333]

It depends if any actual damage is being done. If you fear damage then you would need proof of this before you could realisticly take action.

If there is no damage but it is just inconvienient then there is not a lot you can do other than cut back to the boundry any overhang. Your neighbour doen't have to do this and doesn't have to contribute to the costs this might involve and he doesn't have to dispose of the clippings etc although you do have to offer them back.

The dryness next to the tree is the roots sucking up the water.

You could dig a trench next to your garage to see if the roots are causing a problem then put in a root proof membrain to stop it going any further.

In theory you could also dig up part of your garden to abate the nusience of the roots but I can't remember if you would be liable if it were then to die.

As an after though I would put in a root proof membrain if I noticed the neighbour planting trees or bushes next to my boundry.