They can make it difficult to grow and mow grass. There are some solutions that will allow you and your tree to co-exist while maintaining an attractive landscape. Always leave surface roots in place. Surface roots are a natural and important part of a tree's development. They provide mechanical support as well as nutrient and water uptake for the tree.
Some species naturally produce more surface roots than others.
Other species develop surface roots due to compacted soils or improper watering. All tress grow roots near the soil surface, NOT deep into the ground like a carrot. They also extend in all directions, for more than two times the height of the tree. Many homeowners want to remove or bury these surface roots. This can harm the tree.