Bal Tashchit
From Halachipedia
The primary source in the Torah not to waste is derived from the passage that forbids cutting down a fruit tree when putting a city under siege. Yet, Chazal understand that any form of wasting a useable item is included in this prohibition, generally called Baal Tashchit.[1]
Applications
- It is forbidden to cut down a fruit tree. However if it is causing damage then it may be cut down.[2]
- It is forbidden to burn a useable shirt or break a vessel for no reason.[3]
