Can a tree owner be penalized if branches injure neighbors?

Does the tree owner have to pay a penalty for cutting trees whose branches or coconuts fall into a neighbor’s premises and cause harm?

3 Answers
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A M Iktear Uddin (Anik)
Advocate A M Iktear Uddin (anik) Answered: 11 Dec 2025

Answer- Dear Client, The owner's liability is dependent on the principle of Negligence under the law of Torts. He can be held liable for compensation if the falling branches/coconuts cause damage to the property or an injury to a person, if the owner was negligent and the harm was foreseeable. I hope this answer helps. For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you.

Ayantika Mondal
Advocate Ayantika Mondal Answered: 10 Dec 2025

Dear Client, If a branch of your tree or a coconut from your tree falls into the neighbour's property, causing harm to the neighbour, you will be held liable for causing harm. You will not be held liable if such an incident was unforeseeable. Your trees are your property and therefore any harm caused by them to others will be your responsibility. You have a duty to ensure that the things in your property do not affect others. If you are negligent in ensuring that, then you shall be held liable for the damages caused. I hope this was helpful. For further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you.

Admin
Advocate By LEAD INDIA Answered: 13 Nov 2025

If a tree on your property causes harm, you are liable only if negligence is proven. No penalty applies for natural causes like storms. But if you ignored warnings or failed to trim risky branches, you may face liability under criminal law and civil liability laws, the affected neighbor may also claim compensation for negligence or property damage. For further legal assistance contact us on our helpline number.

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