Who's responsible for paying for tree trimming?

It’s good that you’re actually asking the question instead of just digging in your heels like a lot of people do. Getting different perspectives (and sometimes legal clarification) is always the smarter approach. As a general principle, it’s always wise to try to keep good relations with your neighbours, because disputes like this can sour things quickly. Even if you’re in the right legally, sometimes a small gesture can go a long way toward maintaining peace. Legally speaking (and this can vary by jurisdiction), the usual rule is that a property owner can trim branches or roots that cross onto their side of the property line, but only up to the boundary and without harming the health of the tree. Since your neighbour hired someone, the general expectation is that the cost is theirs—because they initiated the work for their benefit. Unless a bylaw or agreement says otherwise, you normally wouldn’t be on the hook just because it’s “your” tree. It’s also worth noting that in some cases, if a tree or its branches actually interfere with your neighbour’s use of their land—say by making it impossible to mow, or causing damage like scratching vehicles—then nuisance law can come into play. In those situations, a neighbour might have a stronger argument that you, as the tree’s owner, bear some responsibility to address the problem. That said, the rules aren’t the same everywhere, and outcomes depend a lot on local case law. It may be worth double-checking with your municipality or a lawyer familiar with property law in your area. So in short: legally, the cost usually falls to the neighbour who wanted the trimming done. But practically, you may want to weigh whether contributing (even a little) helps avoid a lasting feud.

In my opinion, if it belongs to you, should be able to trim the tree. You would responsible for the payment or you guys can share the cost otherwise, it could be liability issue if damage is done to his property Thank you

In most municipalities, tree branches that extend over a neighbouring property line is considered their property, and can/should be pruned by that neighbour Even if the trunk is located in your backyard and the tree belongs to you, the overhanging branches above your neighbour’s property are typically considered something they are allowed to manage from their side of the property line. So the short answer is: if your neighbour hired someone to trim only the branches that were ONLY over his property, then the cost is generally his responsibility, and you should not normally be expected to share the cost. The main exception would be if your tree caused damage to his property because of your negligence. For example, if a large dead branch from your tree broke, damaged his fence, barbecue, patio furniture, and it could be shown that you knew or should reasonably have known the tree was hazardous, then he may try to escalate the matter and seek compensation for the damage. Those situations are usually assessed case by case. But for ordinary trimming of healthy overhanging branches, the neighbour who wants the pruning done is generally responsible for paying for it.

Your neighbour is usually allowed to trim branches hanging over their property, but if they chose to hire someone without discussing it with you first, they’d normally be responsible for the cost. If there was no prior agreement to split or cover the bill, it’s hard to expect the tree owner to pay after the fact. Good communication beforehand makes all the difference in situations like this.