Tree Nuisances
This page provides information about what action you can take to deal with tree nuisances on properties in Porirua City.
Neighbouring trees can cause a nuisance and damage
Trees can create serious nuisances for neighbours. They do this by overhanging neighbouring properties, dropping leaves or damaging underground drains and building foundations with their root system.
Tree owners are responsible for rectifying tree nuisances
Tree owners are responsible for rectifying problems their trees cause for their neighbours or any other person. If you have a problem with a neighbour’s tree you need to address the issue directly with them.
Get legal or professional advice before dealing with a tree problem
If discussing the matter with the tree owner is not successful, it is recommended you obtain legal and professional advice before you start any work to physically remove or cut the tree.
Obtain advice on this by:
- Consulting your Solicitor or local Citizens Advice Bureau (Inc); or
- Going to the New Zealand Law Society or Consumers web pages; or
- Consulting a qualified "tree doctor or tree surgeon".
Obtain professional advice when planting trees
If you are proposing to plant trees on your property near the boundary, building drains or other structures, consult a nursery first to ensure you obtain non-invasive plants to avoid future problems.
Having problems with a Council owned tree
If a Council owned tree is causing problems for you, report it by calling Council’s Customer Services Centre on phone (04) 237 5089.
You cannot damage or remove trees or plants from public land
The Porirua City Council Bylaw 1991 makes it an offence to disturb, uproot, damage or remove any shrub, tree or other growth from any Council garden or reserve without Council consent.
Links to more tree information
Porirua City Council links:
External links: