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

  1. It is forbidden to cut down a fruit tree. However if it is causing damage then it may be cut down.[2]
  2. It is forbidden to burn a useable shirt or break a vessel for no reason.[3]

Sources

  1. Rambam Sefer HaMitzvot (Lavin n. 57)
  2. Mishneh Torah Kings and Wars 6:8
  3. Rambam Sefer HaMitzvot (Lavin n. 57), Rambam (Melachim 6:10)