The laws governing responsibility and liability for trees is the same regardless of the owner. If a property owner is aware of a dangerous situation regarding a tree on their property and fails to rectify the problem, the owner is liable for damages and clean-up should the tree or large limbs fall. However, trees and limbs fall all the time and generally show little, if any, sign of trouble. In these cases where the owner has no prior knowledge of a potential problem, the tree or limb falling is considered an "act of god" and no liability is assessed. Generally, your home owners or auto insurance policy will cover the cost of removal/damages less your deductible.