Not true. You cannot do damage to a tree (in NY - I'm on Long Island) that
runs over the property line. You can trim branches but you cannot do so to
the detriment of the tree. Taking out the root would damage the tree and
they would be liable.


"Bill Spohn" wrote in message
...
looked up some law regarding trees and discovered something called "air
rights" or something like that, which basically provided that the
branches
of a tree, as long as it doesn't physically touch a neighbors property
may
not be cut by that neighbor even if it is "over" their property. I was
wondering if there are any comparable laws regarding the tree trunk
itself
and its major roots, which obviously run well under my neighbors
property?
Help would be greatly appreciated -- thanks.

Basically, although laws will vary, anything that encroaches on their
property,
whether on, under, or above the ground, can be removed by them (but must
be
given back to you, or else they may be guilty of the tort of conversion).

Too bad for the tree. Try to talk them into letting it live.