Tree branches crossing property line

[HankJM]

What is the name of your state?NY

I have a problem with a neighbor.I have a few trees on my side of the property line.They are large trees and in very good health.There are a few branches that cross the property line and hang over to their property.They are quite high in the air,mind you 2 of the trees are at least 40 feet in height.My neighbor asked me to cut the branches off.I have agreed to do what I can and have trimmed the smaller ones.The larger ones are beyond my capabilities off cutting them safely.I would like to keep them since they provide shade.So my neighbor has gone as far as calling my town board to make me cut the trees down.My question is am I liable to cut them even though they cause no imminent danger to their property.My understanding is if they want to cut them on their side of the property line,they can as long as they don't cause permanent damage to the trees.

[Warped]

I'm not a lawyer!

I'm sure the lawyers here will chime in but, generally speaking, the neighbor is responsible for anything within the bounds of his property line, even if it grew over their property from a tree within the bounds of your property.

In other words, tell the neighbor he is welcome to cut the branches or have them cut at his expense back to his property line so long as it doesn't result in the death of the tree.