I'm gathering that this guy is convinced that the tree is just growing there and would be no skin off of farmerjacks nose if it was gone.
I dont get why he should be pussyfooting around though, just tell him he doesnt want the tree cut down, and if it was to be cut down, it would need a permit, it would have to be cut by a fully insured tree surgeon AND the OP would need payment for it!
Either that or put a halogen light on every tree in the farm.