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HB 81

PROPERTY: Provides relative to branches or roots of trees, bushes, or plants on neighboring property

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chad Boyer

HB 81 clarifies Louisiana property owners' rights to manage tree branches and roots extending from neighboring properties without legal liability.

Read second time by title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary A.
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Bill Summary · HB 81

Legislative bill overview

HB 81 addresses the legal rights of property owners regarding branches or roots of trees, bushes, or plants that extend onto their land from neighboring properties. The bill modifies Louisiana property law to clarify what actions neighbors can take against encroaching vegetation without facing legal liability. This represents a clarification or potential change to existing nuisance and property boundary laws in Louisiana.

Why is this important

Tree and plant disputes between neighbors are common property conflicts that can escalate into costly litigation. Clear statutory guidance reduces uncertainty about what constitutes legal self-help versus trespass, helping residents understand their rights without requiring expensive legal consultation. The outcome affects both rural and urban property owners dealing with overhanging branches, invasive roots affecting foundations or utilities, and vegetation management costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "self-help" remedies: Whether property owners can trim, remove, or destroy encroaching vegetation without owner consent, and how far that authority extends
  • Liability protection: Whether the bill shields property owners from lawsuits if trimming causes tree death, property damage, or injury to the neighboring property owner's tree
  • Agricultural vs. residential application: Different impacts on rural landowners with larger trees versus suburban homeowners with smaller ornamental vegetation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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