Can I cut overhanging branches from my neighbor's tree?

What the Law Says

German civil law gives you a limited right to cut overhanging branches — but it’s not automatic. You must follow strict conditions set out in the German Civil Code (BGB).

Under BGB § 910, you may cut branches or roots that cross onto your property — but only if they interfere with your use of the land. Mere presence is not enough: the overhang must actually hinder how you use your property (e.g., blocking light, damaging structures, or obstructing access).

Before cutting, you must first give the tree owner a reasonable deadline to remove the overhanging parts themselves. Only if they fail to act within that time may you step in. The law treats this as a 'self-help' right — but one tightly constrained by fairness and proportionality.

Importantly, this right does not allow you to harm the health or stability of the neighbor’s tree. Cutting too much or in a way that kills or destabilizes the tree could make you liable for damages.

Statutory Text

(1) Der Eigentümer eines Grundstücks kann Wurzeln eines Baumes oder eines Strauches, die von einem Nachbargrundstück eingedrungen sind, abschneiden und behalten. Das Gleiche gilt von herüberragenden Zweigen, wenn der Eigentümer dem Besitzer des Nachbargrundstücks eine angemessene Frist zur Beseitigung bestimmt hat und die Beseitigung nicht innerhalb der Frist erfolgt.

— BGB § 910 — German Civil Code

Statutory Text

(2) Dem Eigentümer steht dieses Recht nicht zu, wenn die Wurzeln oder die Zweige die Benutzung des Grundstücks nicht beeinträchtigen.

— BGB § 910 — German Civil Code

What Courts Have Said

German courts confirm that self-help under § 910 is conditional — and emphasize proportionality and prior notice.

What to Do

Sources

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