Question
My neighbors have a huge sumac tree that grows close to the property line, next to my lawn. Just 2-3 years ago, their tree was small and my lawn was beautiful. Now their sumac is taller than their house, and it puts out runners and grows sumacs all over my lawn. I am spending my weekends trying to dig those small sumacs out my lawn; but apparently, there is already a net of thick sumac roots right under my lawn. I have little children and try not to spray my lawn too often with 2,4-D or a lawn weed killer. My neighbors do not care of my dying lawn and would never remove the sumac. What I can do to rescue my lawn without putting my children in a constant contact with the 2,4-D or lawn weed killer? I live in Massachusetts. Thank you!

Answer
They may actually be liable for the repairs to your lawn. This is a very tough issue. Local by-laws and covenants change in every town or subdivision. I would first take some pictures (If you haven't already) Then pose this question to your town or city by-law office as they may have the best insight into dealing with issues between homeowners and how to resolve them legally and peacefully while keeping good relations.

A possible trench with a barrier, could have been installed along the property line before this growth happened. Removing the root system now may require ripping up the whole lawn. How big of an area it is?