The Tree On The Line
Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.340 — treble the value, with no need to prove negligence or intent
In Missouri, a person who cuts down, injures, destroys or carries away a tree growing for use, shade or ornament, or timber, on land of another pays the injured party treble the value of what was injured or destroyed, with costs.
No intent to prove. A person claiming damages under the section need not prove negligence or intent.
Power lines. The section also sets the rules for an electric supplier trimming or removing trees and vegetation near its lines.
Trimming branches that hang over a line, and who owns a tree on the line itself, come from Missouri court decisions this page does not quote. Whether a particular cutting was without authority, and what it was worth, are questions for a licensed Missouri attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.340 — Trespass on realty; treble damages; trimming and removing trees
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Missouri attorney.