Lime Tree Roots and Water Pipes: No Conflict

Root-Pipe Interaction

Tree roots do not damage intact water pipes. At 2 m (6.5 ft) depth, roots lack oxygen—most roots are in top 2 ft of soil. Roots encountering pipes simply grow around them.

Exception

Only large, shallow-rooted trees (oaks) in very shallow pipes (<1 ft) might cause uplift over decades. Lime trees (citrus or Tilia) at 19 years, 2 m deep pipes = zero risk.

Advice

Neighbor's concern is unfounded. Original planting advice was correct. No action needed.