Private Property Tree Disputes

Trees are a source of common dispute among neighbors. In most cases, however, the City of Saint Paul does not have legal authority to adjudicate private property tree disputes between property owners.  In many such cases, an issue may be resolved through amicable problem solving by neighbors.  When this proves not to be feasible, either party may choose to seek professional advice. There are many helpful articles and resources available by searching the subject on the internet however; please be aware that other states’ laws could vary from Minnesota’s. 

The following are resources that may provide you assistance:

• Nuisance Trees: Encroaching Branches and Tree Roots (article), http://www.myminnesotawoods.umn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/NuisanceTrees.pdf 
• The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), http://www.isa-arbor.com/ 

• The Dispute Resolution Center in Saint Paul, a private, non-profit community mediation program founded in 1982 to provide mediation, facilitation, training and referral services, phone number is 651.292.7791 or  http://www.disputeresolutioncenter.org/