Ohio Statewide Rule
Ohio Reckless Destruction of Trees Statute
Key Facts
- Statute
- ORC 901.51
- Civil Penalty
- Three times tree value
- Criminal Charge
- Fourth-degree misdemeanor
- Applies
- Statewide uniformly
Summary
Ohio Revised Code 901.51 imposes treble damages statewide on anyone who recklessly cuts, injures, or destroys trees, shrubs, or vines on another's property without consent.
No person, without privilege to do so, shall recklessly cut down, destroy, girdle, or otherwise injure a vine, bush, shrub, sapling, tree, or crop standing or growing on the land of another or upon public land. In addition to the penalty provided in section 901.99 of the Revised Code, whoever violates this section is liable in treble damages for the injury caused.
Full Breakdown
ORC 901.51 applies uniformly across Ohio and creates civil liability of three times the value of the tree or vegetation destroyed. The statute also creates a fourth-degree misdemeanor criminal penalty. It applies whether the trespasser is a neighbor, contractor, or utility worker who exceeds authorized scope. Local tree-trimming ordinances cannot reduce these statewide damages. Boundary tree disputes typically apply this statute when one neighbor unilaterally removes a shared tree.
Violations & Penalties
Treble damages plus fourth-degree misdemeanor criminal charges and restitution costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cut my neighbor's tree branches that hang over my property in Ohio?
Does ORC 901.51 require intent to harm?
Sources
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