🌳 Overhanging Tree Branches: A Common Illinois Neighborly Challenge Living in Illinois, with its beautiful trees and lush landscapes, often comes with its own set of challenges, especially when those trees are close to property lines. One of the most frequent sources of neighbor disputes revolves around overhanging tree branches. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under Illinois law is crucial for resolving these issues legally and peacefully. ⚖️ Illinois Law: Your Rights and Responsibilities Illinois generally follows the "Massachusetts Rule" regarding trees on property lines. This rule dictates that a landowner's right to trim encroaching trees from a neighbor’s property is limited. You can trim branches and roots that cross onto your property, up to the property line , but you cannot enter your neighbor's property without their permission. ✔️ Self-Help Remedy: The primary legal principle is that you have the right to "...