Can you pick fruit from your neighbor's tree? Here's what Ohio law says

Ever taken a stroll in the park or traveled through a forest and seen a bunch of fruit trees? The temptation to pick one is so real.

As each summer day passes, many fruits are coming in season in places other than a grocery store. But is it forbidden to pick fruit from a tree that’s not yours? This raises so many questions about the legality of grabbing fruit hanging in any space.

Is it legal to take fruit from a tree in the state of Ohio, both in public spaces and private property? Could the simple act of it put one in legal hot water? Let’s take a look.

Just peachy: Kroger's Sweet Georgia Peaches program has arrived — how to find stores hosting events

Is it legal to pick fruit from trees in public spaces?

According to Ohio Laws and Administrative Rules, you cannot take an entire tree, plant, or any part of it unless it has been authorized by the chief of the division in that specific area.

This includes but is not limited to:

• Fruit

• Leaf mold

• Flowers

• Foliage

• Grass

• Turf

• Humus

• Shrubs

• Deadwood

When it's OK to pick up fallen fruit in public spaces

Fallen fruit may be taken in public spaces not marked as prohibited, along with pine cones, berries, tree nuts, mushrooms, and naturally-shed antlers.

If you want to pick a fruit hanging from a tree, it must be in a public space authorized by someone in charge of that specific area.

So if you're planning to walk over to your neighbor's yard for a fresh apple or some cherries, you'll want to make sure you have permission (unless the fruit is already on the ground).

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Can you pick fruit from trees in public spaces? What Ohio law says