Is it ok for trees to grow close to the house? When should I get them trimmed or cut down? As trees grow taller, they also grow wider. Sometimes, this presents a problem when a tree was planted too close to the home. When to cut down a tree or trim the tree: >>> If the tree branches are near the windows If the branches leave to many leaves in your gutters If the tree limbs are hanging over the roof. If the tree is swaying in the wind, near the home If the tree is growing crooked, leaning toward the house.