"shared" trees causing damage to my property (new house, fencing)

[ohio06]

I just moved into a new house and we are looking to clean up the yard and replace the chain link fence with a new wood privacy fence. we are wanting to remove all of the trees along the property line on the right. the trees grew up into and around the existing chain fence that is attached to the side of my garage. There are also I think 2 trees growing up into my garages foundation causing it to crack but again some of the tree sits on my neighbors property line as well. I know I can cut the trees up to my property line but I want to take them down completely as they are damaging my property. There is also no way to replace the fence without them being removed. I will be asking my neighbor about it when I'm ready to start on the yard (when I'm finished with the inside in about 2 weeks) and show the damage they are doing to the garage but if he for some reason says no would I be able to get a permit or something from the city saying I can anyway since they are causing property damage? there are 5 trees total I believe.

[rrtechno]

I know there are "neighbors from h***" out there, but why worry about it before the situation arises. If you just moved in, now would be a good time to introduce yourselves to the neighbors, if they haven't already come over to greet you. In the conversation, you might mention that you plan to do some work outside, too, to fix things up a little. Do NOT go in with an immediate heavy hand with something like "Those trees that are over there on the property line are destroying my garage and I am going to remove them." Something on the lines of "Would you like to take a look at some of the things I have planned and noticed and see what you think." You never know, he might notice that there is a problem and suggest that he help with the removal of the offenders that are on his property.

You still have the option of legal action if necessary, but save that as your back-up card.

[chet_kinkaid]

I would think twice about this..mature trees add considerable value to a property,also your neighbors can sue you if you harm the trees.

[ohioaninsc]

The value that mature trees add though is most likely cancelled out by the damage they are doing to the garage and the original fencing...

I hate to have to take a tre down but sometimes it can't be helped. Hopefully if and when you do, you will be able to plant 2 new ones for every one you take down.