How To Remove a Dangerous Tree

While trees provide shade, privacy, and beauty, they can become hazardous when diseased, damaged, or improperly positioned.  This article will guide you through identifying and removing a dangerous tree, emphasizing the importance of professional assistance for this high-risk task. In the video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook and arborist Matt Foti demonstrate the safe removal of a decaying tree that threatens a nearby house.

*We averaged all cost figures in this article from 8 Billion Trees, ProMatcher, and Lawn Love.

Identifying a Dangerous Tree

Before taking any action, it’s important to determine whether a tree poses a genuine threat. Several factors can indicate that a tree is dangerous and may require removal.

Signs of Decay

Decay is one of the primary reasons a tree becomes hazardous, and there are several indicators to watch for. These include large cavities or holes in the trunk, mushrooms or fungal growth at the base of the tree, soft, crumbly, or missing bark, and dead or hanging branches. 

In the video, Foti demonstrates how using a metal probe can effectively assess the extent of decay in the tree’s trunk, revealing how much of the heartwood has rotted away.

Structural Issues

Trees with structural problems are at a higher risk of falling, and there are several warning signs to be aware of. A leaning trunk—especially if it’s a recent change—cracks or splits in the trunk or major branches, multiple weakly attached trunks, and exposed roots due to erosion or construction are all indicators of potential instability. 

Environmental Factors

A tree’s location can make it dangerous, even if it appears healthy. Factors to consider include whether it’s growing in regions prone to strong winds or storms, whether it has been affected by recent construction or changes in soil grade, and its proximity to buildings, power lines, or high-traffic areas. 

Assessing the Risk of a Tree

Once you’ve identified potential issues, it’s time to evaluate the level of risk the tree presents.

Professional Evaluation

Hiring a certified arborist to assess a tree’s condition is wise. They can thoroughly inspect the tree’s health, use specialized tools to detect internal decay, evaluate its structural integrity, and provide recommendations for treatment or removal. 

Legal Considerations

Before removing a tree, it’s important to check local regulations, as some areas require permits for tree removal. Protected or heritage trees may have special restrictions—and if the tree is on a property line, it’s advisable to consult with your neighbor. 

Additionally, if you live in a community with a homeowner’s association, check its guidelines. 

Preparing for Tree Removal

Proper preparation is key to creating a safe and efficient process if removal is necessary.

Safety Precautions

Tree removal is inherently dangerous. Take these safety measures:

• Clear the area around the tree of people, pets, and valuable objects
• Identify and mark underground utilities
• Plan escape routes in case the tree falls unexpectedly
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Equipment Needed

Proper tools are a must-have for safe tree removal. Common equipment includes:

• Chainsaw with a sharp chain and full fuel tank
• Rope and harness for climbers
• Wedges and felling lever
• First aid kit
• PPE such as hard hats, safety glasses, ear protection, and cut-resistant chaps

The Tree Removal Process

Removing a large or dangerous tree is a complex process that professionals should handle. However, understanding the steps involved can help you appreciate the skill and precautions required.

Removing Lower Branches

Clearing the lower branches is the first step in removing a large tree. This process, known as limbing, makes the subsequent steps safer and more accessible. In the video, Foti demonstrates this technique using a chainsaw to carefully remove the lower limbs of the decaying tree.

Cutting and Lowering Large Limbs

For larger branches higher up in the tree:

1. Tie a rope securely to the limb.
2. Make an undercut on the branch to prevent bark tearing.
3. Make the final cut slightly outside the undercut.
4. Slowly lower the cut limb to the ground using the rope.

This controlled method prevents damage to surrounding structures and allows for safely handling heavy limbs. Remember, controlling the fall of limbs is necessary not just to avoid property damage but also for the safety of the crew involved in the removal process.

Felling the Main Trunk

Once the branches are removed, the main trunk can be felled. This process typically involves:

1. Determining the fall direction based on the tree’s natural lean and surrounding obstacles.
2. Creating a directional notch cut on the side of the trunk facing the fall direction.
3. Making a back cut on the opposite side, slightly higher than the notch.
4. Using wedges to help control the fall if necessary, especially for large or leaning trees.

For very tall or precariously positioned trees, professionals may need to remove the trunk in sections from the top down. This technique, called “sectioning,” helps mitigate risks associated with the uncontrolled fall of large trunk parts.

Removing the Stump

After the tree is down, the stump remains. Options for stump removal include:

• Grinding: Using a stump grinder to chip away the wood
• Chemical treatment: Applying chemicals to speed up decomposition
• Manual removal: Digging out the stump and roots (labor-intensive)
• Natural decay: Allowing the stump to decompose over time (slowest method)

In the video, Foti uses a chainsaw to cut the stump flush with the ground, which is often sufficient if you don’t plan on replanting or landscaping that area. If stump removal is necessary, choosing the correct method depends on factors like time, cost, and the future use of the space.

Post-Removal Considerations

After removing the tree,  we recommend several more steps to make sure your property is safe and ready for future landscaping.

Site Cleanup

A thorough cleanup is a must:

• Remove all debris, including branches, leaves, and sawdust
• Dispose of wood properly—some areas have regulations on wood disposal due to pest concerns
• Fill any holes left by root removal to prevent tripping hazards
• Inspect the area for any remaining hazardous materials or debris that may require special handling

Replanting Options

Consider replanting to restore the benefits lost with the removed tree:

• Choose a species suitable for your climate and space
• Plant new trees away from structures and utilities
• Consider the mature size of the tree when selecting a planting location
• Opt for tree varieties known for disease resistance and sturdy growth habits to promote longevity and safety

Replanting enhances the beauty and value of your property and can also contribute to the local ecosystem by providing habitat and improving air quality.

Preventing Future Issues

Regularly inspect trees for signs of disease or damage and conduct proper pruning to maintain their structure. Avoid damaging tree roots during construction or landscaping projects, and provide appropriate watering and fertilization to keep trees healthy. Additionally, scheduling periodic evaluations by a certified arborist can help detect potential issues early. 

By following these practices, you can extend the life of your trees and address risks before they become serious hazards.

Our Conclusion

Removing a dangerous tree is necessary to maintain a safe property, but it’s a task best left to professionals. By understanding the signs of a hazardous tree and the removal process, you can make informed decisions about the trees on your property.