Tree Felling is a highly dangerous and specialist skill that requires training, practice and equipment to perform properly. It can only be undertaken when a tree is unsafe or in a condition that poses a risk to people or property, or it is causing damage or nuisance. In the vast majority of cases, felling should be a last resort – there are many alternatives such as pollarding and pruning which can reduce weight or impact without killing the tree. There are also benefits to the environment and local economies from wood production (both for timber and other forest products) and sustainable woodland management, as well as mitigating the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration.
A professional will always try to fell a tree in a controlled manner, ensuring it lands where they want it to and not in any dangerous spots. This involves a detailed planning phase, taking into account the size and height of the tree as well as its natural tendencies to fall in particular directions. It will also consider the surrounding terrain and any other trees. The arborist will then start by making an angled cut on the side of the tree that they are felling, which will act as a hinge and encourage the tree to land in the desired direction.
The next step is to make a back cut, removing a section of the trunk behind the notch cut. This will prevent the notch from closing as the tree falls, which can potentially trap or ensnare people in its path. Finally, an undercut is made at the base of the tree, which will help to provide additional guidance and control as it falls. In some circumstances, a bore may be made in the directional notch to remove part of the hinge and avoid a ‘kickback’ effect when the saw is cutting.
When a tree is felled it can drop debris, such as dead branches or woodchips. This can be a significant hazard for anyone using a chainsaw and needs to be managed carefully. Dead and rotting tree stumps can also pose a risk, especially to children and pets playing in the garden. Tree roots can also be a problem, especially in older properties where they can cause subsidence and damage plumbing.
If you are considering felling a tree in your garden, it is worth contacting your local council for advice on whether a licence is required. You will only need a licence for work outside your property boundary, and this usually applies to trees with a diameter greater than 5m.
It is also important to clear the area around the base of the tree before starting to ensure that nobody will be harmed by the fall or projection of splinters. A good plan for the tree and its debris is also advisable, such as putting it out for collection as yard waste, selling it, or simply piling it up to rot. It is also advisable to get some assistance when felling a tree, or at least to be aware of who will be helping you in case something goes wrong.
source https://ontimetreelopping.wordpress.com/2025/03/25/what-is-tree-felling/
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