Felling Dangerous Trees

Felling Dangerous Trees: The Complete Guide

When you’re faced with a towering hazard in your yard or on your property, knowing how to safely remove a dangerous tree becomes critical knowledge. Whether damaged by storms, disease, or simply reaching the end of its lifecycle, dangerous trees pose significant risks to your home, family, and surrounding structures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about identifying, assessing, and safely removing hazardous trees before they cause damage or injury.

Understanding What Makes a Tree Dangerous

Not all declining trees require immediate removal. To make informed decisions about tree management on your property, you first need to understand what characteristics classify a tree as genuinely dangerous.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Trees communicate their distress through various visual cues. Learning to recognize these warning signs can help you identify potential hazards before they become emergencies. Some key indicators that your tree may be dangerous include:

Structural Issues

Large dead branches or a partially dead crown
Cracks extending deep into the wood of the trunk
Hollow areas or large cavities within the main trunk
Leaning more than 15 degrees from vertical, especially with recent root exposure
Multiple trunks with weak attachment points or included bark
Previous branch failures in the same tree

Health Indicators

Fungal bodies (mushrooms or conks) growing from the base or trunk
Extensive bark loss or unusual peeling
Fine twigs absent from the outer branches for multiple years
Premature fall color or leaf drop

According to the USDA Forest Service, approximately 100 people are killed each year in the United States by falling trees or branches, with thousands more suffering injuries. Many of these incidents could have been prevented through proper identification and management of hazardous trees.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides extensive resources on identifying hazardous defects in trees, which can help you make more informed assessments of the trees on your property.

Assessing the Level of Risk

Not all dangerous trees present the same level of risk. Understanding how to assess the potential hazard will help you prioritize which trees need immediate attention and which can be addressed with less urgency.

The Risk Assessment Triangle

Arborists evaluate tree risk using three primary factors:

Tree Defect Severity – How serious is the tree’s condition?
Target Value – What could be damaged if the tree fails?
Failure Potential – How likely is it that the tree will fail?

When assessing trees on your property, consider each of these factors carefully. A severely damaged tree near your home presents a much higher risk than a similarly damaged tree in a remote corner of your property.

Quantifying Risk Levels

The following table provides a framework for determining the risk level of trees on your property:

Risk Factor	Low Risk	Moderate Risk	High Risk	Extreme Risk
Tree Condition	Minor defects only	Visible defects, but sound structure	Multiple serious defects	Major structural failure imminent
Target Exposure	Rarely used area	Occasionally used area	Frequently used area	Constant occupation (house, playground)
Size of Defective Part	Small branches (<2″)	Medium branches (2-6″)	Large branches (>6″)	Entire tree
Occupancy Period	Rare (few hours/year)	Occasional (weekly)	Frequent (daily)	Constant (24/7)
Recommended Action	Monitor annually	Professional assessment	Prompt mitigation	Immediate removal

Trees falling into the high or extreme risk categories typically require professional intervention, while those in the moderate category should be regularly monitored and evaluated by a certified arborist.

Planning for Safe Tree Removal

Once you’ve identified a dangerous tree that needs to be removed, careful planning becomes essential for a safe and effective removal process. Rushing into tree felling without proper preparation significantly increases the risks involved.

Site Evaluation Checklist

Before beginning any tree removal operation, you should conduct a thorough site evaluation. Consider the following factors:

Tree Characteristics

Height and diameter of the tree
Species (hardwood vs. softwood)
Lean direction and severity
Distribution of weight in the canopy
Presence of dead branches or widow makers
Signs of internal decay or structural weakness

Site Conditions

Available falling space in all directions
Obstacles within two tree-lengths of the tree
Slope of the ground
Wind direction and strength
Proximity to structures or utility lines
Underground utilities or septic systems
Soil conditions, especially after heavy rain

Equipment and Personnel

Proper safety gear availability
Appropriate tools for the job
Communication plans for the work area
Escape routes (at 45-degree angles from the fall line)
First aid supplies and emergency contacts

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides detailed guidelines for tree felling operations that can be found on their official website. Following these guidelines can help ensure your safety during the removal process.

DIY vs. Professional Removal

One of the most important decisions you’ll make regarding a dangerous tree is whether to remove it yourself or hire a professional arborist. While DIY removal may seem cost-effective, it often presents significant risks, especially for novices.

The table below outlines scenarios when DIY removal might be appropriate versus when professional help is essential:

Consideration	DIY Appropriate	Professional Required
Tree Height	Under 20 feet	Over 20 feet
Diameter	Less than 10 inches	Greater than 10 inches
Location	Clear falling area with no obstacles	Near structures, power lines, or other obstacles
Tree Condition	Healthy, minimal decay	Dead, diseased, or structurally compromised
Required Equipment	Basic hand tools and chainsaw	Specialized equipment (bucket trucks, cranes, rigging)
Experience Level	Experience with proper cutting techniques	Limited experience with tree felling
Hazards	Minimal complications	Multiple risk factors present
Accessibility	Easy ground access	Difficult access or working conditions

According to the Tree Care Industry Association, approximately 580,000 trees are removed annually in the United States by professional tree care companies, with a significant percentage classified as hazardous removals. The average cost for professional removal ranges from $400 to $2,000, depending on size and complexity, but this investment significantly reduces the risk of property damage and personal injury.

Essential Equipment and Safety Gear

Whether you’re tackling the tree removal yourself or simply need to understand what professionals will be using, knowing the essential equipment and safety gear for tree felling operations is valuable information.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When dealing with dangerous trees, personal safety should be your highest priority. At minimum, you should have:

Head Protection

Forestry helmet with integrated face shield and ear protection
Safety glasses with side shields

Body Protection

Chainsaw chaps or pants with cut-resistant material
High-visibility work vest or jacket
Heavy-duty work gloves
Steel-toed or composite-toe boots with good ankle support

Additional Safety Equipment

First aid kit specifically designed for logging injuries
Communication device (radio or cell phone)
Whistle for emergency signaling
Sufficient water and safety documents

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that inadequate protective equipment contributes to approximately 36,000 chainsaw-related injuries treated in emergency rooms annually. Proper PPE can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of these injuries.

Felling Tools and Equipment

Beyond personal protection, you’ll need specialized tools for the actual tree removal:

Essential Tools

Professional-grade chainsaw with proper bar length
Wedges (plastic or aluminum)
Sledgehammer or mallet for driving wedges
Felling lever or breaking bar
Axe or hatchet
Rope (at least 1.5 times the tree height)
Gas and oil for equipment
Tool maintenance supplies

Advanced Equipment (for larger operations)

Stump grinder
Wood chipper
Rigging equipment
Heavy machinery for log movement

According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, using proper equipment and following safety protocols can reduce the risk of injury during tree removal operations by up to 74%. This significant reduction underscores the importance of not cutting corners when it comes to safety equipment.

Proven Techniques for Safely Felling Dangerous Trees

With proper preparation and equipment in place, understanding the correct techniques for felling dangerous trees becomes the next critical component of the removal process.

The Standard Notch and Back Cut Method

For relatively straightforward tree removals, the conventional notch and back cut method provides a controlled way to direct the tree’s fall:

Plan your notch – The notch should face the direction you want the tree to fall.
Create the top cut – Make a downward angled cut about one-third of the way through the trunk.
Make the bottom cut – Cut upward to meet the end of your top cut, creating a 70-degree notch.
Execute the back cut – On the opposite side of the notch, make a horizontal cut slightly above the bottom of the notch, leaving a “hinge” of wood about 10% of the trunk diameter.
Insert wedges – For trees that are leaning slightly away from the intended fall direction, insert wedges into the back cut to prevent binding and help control direction.
Retreat safely – Move away from the tree at a 45-degree angle opposite the fall direction, watching for falling debris.

This standard approach works well for trees with a slight lean in the intended fall direction and minimal defects. However, dangerous trees often require modifications to this technique.

Advanced Techniques for Hazardous Situations

When dealing with trees that have significant structural issues or complex surroundings, specialized cutting techniques may be necessary:

Open-Face Notch Technique

Creates a wider 90-degree notch
Provides greater control during the entire falling process
Recommended for trees with decay or structural weakness

Bore Cutting Method

Involves boring through the center of the trunk before completing the back cut
Helps prevent barber-chairing (vertical splitting) in trees with significant tension
Essential for trees with heavy lean opposite the desired fall direction

Sectional Dismantling

Removing the tree in small sections from top to bottom
Required when there’s insufficient space for whole-tree felling
Usually involves rigging equipment and is best left to professionals

A ten-year study conducted by the National Timber Harvesting and Transportation Safety Foundation found that improper cutting techniques contributed to 35% of severe injuries during tree removal operations. Taking the time to learn and apply the correct technique for each specific situation significantly improves safety outcomes.

Special Considerations for Storm-Damaged Trees

Trees damaged by storms present unique challenges and heightened risks:

Suspended or Partially Fallen Trees

Evaluate the points of contact and potential movement
Use winches or come-alongs to control the final cutting
Never work directly underneath suspended material

Trees with Split Trunks

Assess which portions are under compression versus tension
Cut the compression side first, then the tension side
Consider sectional removal rather than whole-tree felling

Trees with Multiple Hazards

Prioritize the removal of the most dangerous portions first
Establish wider safety zones for all personnel
Consider mechanical assistance (cranes or bucket trucks)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides detailed guidelines for handling hazardous trees after disasters, which can be particularly valuable when dealing with storm damage.

Legal Considerations and Regulations

Tree removal, especially of dangerous trees, intersects with various legal considerations that property owners should understand before proceeding.

Property Boundaries and Ownership

Before removing any tree, confirm:

The tree is entirely on your property
Your deed doesn’t contain any tree preservation covenants
There are no boundary disputes with neighbors

If a dangerous tree straddles property lines, written permission from all affected property owners is typically required before removal. In some cases, the cost of removal may be shared between property owners.

Local Regulations and Permits

Tree removal regulations vary significantly by location:

Urban Areas – Many cities require permits for removing trees above certain diameters, regardless of condition.
Historic Districts – Additional restrictions often apply in designated historic neighborhoods.
Protected Species – Some tree species receive special protection under local or state law.
Wetland Areas – Trees in designated wetlands typically face stricter removal regulations.

According to data from the Arbor Day Foundation, approximately 67% of U.S. municipalities have some form of tree protection ordinance. These ordinances frequently include specific provisions for hazardous trees, often streamlining the permit process when immediate removal is necessary for safety reasons.

Emergency Provisions

Most jurisdictions include emergency provisions for imminent hazards:

Documentation of the hazardous condition (photographs, arborist reports)
Notification to the appropriate municipal department
Expedited permit processes or post-removal notification

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers guidance on tree hazard management for homeowners, including information about navigating local regulations during emergency situations.

Post-Removal Considerations

Once a dangerous tree has been successfully removed, several important considerations remain regarding the cleanup, wood utilization, and future landscaping of the area.

Stump Management Options

After felling, you’ll need to decide how to handle the remaining stump:

Complete Removal

Grinding (most common method for residential properties)
Excavation (removes the entire root system)
Chemical treatment (slower process using potassium nitrate)

Partial Treatment

Cutting flush to ground
Covering with soil and mulch
Decorative repurposing (carving, using as a planter)

The Environmental Protection Agency provides guidance on sustainable practices for wood waste management, including options for tree stumps and larger debris.

Wood Utilization Opportunities

Rather than treating all removed tree material as waste, consider these productive uses:

Lumber Applications

Milling for construction lumber (if sufficient straight sections exist)
Creating natural-edge slabs for furniture
Producing fence posts or landscape timbers

Replanting Considerations

If the removed tree was an important landscape element, thoughtful replanting can restore the aesthetic and functional benefits:

Species Selection Factors

Site conditions (soil type, drainage, sun exposure)
Mature size appropriate for location
Disease and pest resistance
Native species benefits
Climate change resilience

Planting Best Practices

Proper planting depth (root flare at soil level)
Adequate planting hole diameter (2-3 times root ball width)
Mulching without touching the trunk
Initial staking only when necessary
Regular watering during establishment

The National Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program offers extensive resources on appropriate species selection and planting techniques for different regions of the United States.

Prevention: Avoiding Future Dangerous Trees

While this guide focuses primarily on handling trees that have already become hazardous, prevention represents the most cost-effective approach to tree hazard management.

Proactive Tree Care Practices

Implementing these practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing dangerous trees on your property:

Regular Inspection

Annual visual assessment of all large trees
Professional inspection every 3-5 years
Additional inspections after severe weather events

Structural Pruning

Early pruning to establish strong structure
Removal of competing leaders
Maintaining appropriate branch spacing and size ratios

Environmental Management

Preventing soil compaction in root zones
Maintaining proper mulching practices
Avoiding mechanical damage to trunks and major roots
Providing supplemental water during drought conditions

Research published in the Journal of Arboriculture indicates that trees receiving regular maintenance are 64% less likely to develop serious structural defects compared to neglected trees. This preventative approach not only enhances safety but also extends the useful lifespan of valuable landscape trees.

Long-Term Site Planning

Thoughtful placement of new trees can prevent many future hazards:

Strategic Placement

Appropriate setbacks from structures and utilities
Grouping trees for wind resistance when possible
Considering mature size in all dimensions

Species Selection

Matching species characteristics to site conditions
Selecting appropriate growth rates and mature sizes
Diversifying species to reduce vulnerability to pests and diseases

The U.S. Forest Service’s i-Tree program provides valuable tools for homeowners and communities to plan and manage tree populations for maximum benefits and minimum risks.

When to Call for Emergency Tree Services

Despite your best preventative efforts, situations may arise where emergency tree services become necessary. Recognizing these scenarios can help protect life and property.

True Tree Emergencies

While many tree issues can wait for scheduled service, these situations warrant immediate professional attention:

Imminent Failure Indicators

Cracking sounds coming from the tree
Visible movement of the root plate during winds
Fresh splits appearing in the trunk or major branches
Trees leaning against structures or utility lines

Post-Storm Hazards

Trees partially uprooted but still standing
Large hanging branches over occupied areas
Split trunks with one section still attached
Trees leaning on other trees creating domino potential

Utility Conflicts

Trees or branches contacting power lines
Fallen trees preventing emergency vehicle access
Trees threatening critical infrastructure

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, approximately 30% of power outages in the United States are caused by trees and branches contacting power lines. In these situations, always contact the utility company before attempting any removal activities near electrical infrastructure.

Working with Emergency Tree Services

When facing a tree emergency:

Safety First – Evacuate areas at risk and establish safety perimeters
Documentation – Photograph conditions for insurance purposes
Professional Selection – Choose services with emergency response capabilities
Clear Communication – Provide detailed information about the hazard
Coordination – Facilitate access for equipment and personnel

The Tree Care Industry Association recommends selecting emergency tree services that employ Certified Treecare Safety Professionals (CTSPs) and maintain appropriate insurance coverage, including worker’s compensation and property damage liability.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions About Dangerous Trees

Managing dangerous trees requires balancing immediate safety concerns with long-term property goals, environmental considerations, and financial realities. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the complex factors involved in identifying, assessing, and removing hazardous trees.

Remember that while tree removal sometimes becomes necessary, preservation should remain the preferred option when safely possible. Many trees with moderate defects can be managed through pruning, cabling, or other arboricultural techniques that preserve their valuable benefits while mitigating risks.

For trees that truly require removal, taking the time to properly plan and execute the process—whether through DIY methods or professional services—ensures the best possible outcomes for safety, property protection, and environmental stewardship.

By combining the knowledge presented in this guide with local resources, such as certified arborists and municipal forestry departments, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions about the dangerous trees on your property and protect what matters most.

For additional information and resources on tree risk assessment and management, visit the USDA Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry program website. This comprehensive resource provides science-based guidance for homeowners and communities dealing with tree hazards and general tree care.