Can I cut my neighbour's overhanging branches in Finland?
Yes — but the order of steps decides. The Neighbour Relations Act (from 1920) grants the right to remove branches and roots protruding onto your side that cause harm — but only after you've asked the neighbour to remove them and they haven't within a reasonable time. Only the part crossing the line may go, cut without needless damage to the tree. The tree itself and its trunk are untouchable — the neighbour's property.
📋 The rules
- The right covers only branches and roots protruding onto your side that cause harm (shade, leaf load, damage risk).
- Demand first: the neighbour gets a reasonable time to remove them — only then may you pick up the saw.
- Cut only what crosses the boundary — touching the tree beyond the line is criminal damage.
- Work without needless harm to the tree and at the right season (no major cuts during bird nesting).
- Cut branches belong in principle to the tree's owner — offer them before disposal.
🔓 Exceptions
- Immediate danger (a breaking branch over your roof) justifies acting at once — document it.
- Municipal or road-area trees: notify the municipality, don't saw yourself.
⚠️ Penalties
Cutting without a demand or beyond the line can be criminal damage — ruining a valuable yard tree can cost thousands. Done correctly, removal carries no consequence.
📎 Sources
- Finlex · Neighbour Relations Act 26/1920 (s. 8) →
- Minilex · A neighbour's branches on your side →
- Metsään magazine · Trees and neighbours →
❓ Frequently asked questions
Must I warn the neighbour before cutting?
Yes — the law requires giving them the chance to remove the branches within a reasonable time first. A written demand is the best evidence.
Can I cut harmless branches?
No — the removal right covers only harmful overhang. Mere aesthetic annoyance doesn't qualify.
Who owns the cut branches and the apples?
The tree's owner — fruit falling on your side is in principle theirs too. In practice, people agree.
Can I fell the neighbour's tree leaning over my yard?
No — the trunk is theirs. For a dangerous tree, demand action; failing that, the route runs through the municipality or court.
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