Can I cut trees on my property in Connecticut?

Under Connecticut case law, if a tree is growing on one person’s land but its branches or roots encroach on a neighbor’s land, the neighbor can cut off the branches or roots up to the line of his or her land (see McCrann v. Town Planning & Zoning Commission, 161 Conn.

How much does tree removal cost in CT?

In Hartford, $870 is the average price paid for tree removal. Most homeowners receive a bill between $700 to $1,035, but the full pricing spread ranges from just $200 to $1,500.

Do you need a license to remove trees in Connecticut?

While anyone can cut down or remove fallen trees, the Arborist Law specifies that only arborists licensed by Connecticut can prune or take down tree limbs. Penalties for violating the law range from $1,000-$2,500 a day. Unlicensed arborists, tree-cutters and landscapers cannot trim or prune trees.

What is killing trees in CT?

An invasive insect called the Emerald ash borer is the main culprit in killing off our ash trees. (Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station photo.)) The emerald ash borer started showing up in the state in 2012 and has now spread across Connecticut.

Who is responsible for tree damage in CT?

When negligence is not a factor, Connecticut law states that whosever property a tree falls on is responsible. If you were unaware of the tree’s condition then you are not liable for the damages to your neighbor’s property.

Who is liable for overhanging trees?

Overhanging Branches on Your Property Even if the tree trunk is on your neighbor’s property, you have the responsibility for cutting any branches that extend onto your property line. You are responsible for the cost of cutting any branches you choose to trim. You can cut back anything up to your property line.

Can I cut down a tree?

You will need permission to fell or prune a tree in your garden or land if: It is covered by a tree preservation order – you will require permission from your local authority. It is within a designated conservation area – you are required to notify your local authority to get permission.

When can you cut trees down?

If your tree has a less severe problem, one of the best times to remove trees is during the dormant season, between late winter and early spring. Here’s why. Dormant trees are leafless and lighter, so it’s much easier for a certified arborist to cut and handle the branches.

Why are so many trees dying in CT?

Several years of severe storms and drought resulting from our changing climate and major insect infestations have left many damaged or dead trees in forests and residential areas. Damaged, dead, and diseased trees can fall without warning, potentially causing injury or property damage.

Why are trees dying in CT?

A cycle of drought, freezing winters and pestilence have wreaked havoc on Connecticut forests in the past five years, officials say, leaving thousands of dead trees across the state in danger of damaging infrastructure, and town budgets strained to handle the problem.

How do you find out who is responsible for trees?

The tree belongs to the person upon whose land it has originally grown. Even if its branches or, worse still, its roots have begun to grow over or into a neighbour’s territory, it belongs to the landowner where the tree was originally planted.

Can you legally cut down branches overhanging my property?

If a tree’s branches overhang into your property from a neighbour’s, you can trim them, but only up to the property line. You can’t lean into the neighbour’s garden to do this, though, as it constitutes trespass. If a tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order, you can’t cut the branches.

Can I remove a large tree myself?

You’re putting yourself and any surrounding structure at risk. Falling tree limbs are large and unpredictable, a dangerous combo. For large tree removal, the safest suggestion is calling a certified company to do the work for you. They have the equipment, experience, and insurance needed to do the job safely.

Can you get fined for cutting a tree down?

The maximum fine is £20,000 for destroying a tree and up to £2,500 for anyone who does not completely destroy a tree but has carried out some other works without consent. If the destruction of a tree is shown to be beneficial to a proposed development any fines are unlimited and are set at the discretion of the court.