How to remove a tree: the process of removing a large tree from your property

There may come a time when removing a large tree from your property becomes necessary. Whether it's due to safety concerns, disease, or the need for a change in scenery, the process of removing a sizable tree is more than just a cut-and-clear operation.

In this blog, the team at Trav’s Trees will walk you through the fundamental steps involved in the removal of large trees, breaking down the process into helpful insights. From the initial assessment to the final cleanup, we’ll guide you through the tree-removal process to ensure your garden continues to look its best all year round.

When is it necessary to remove large trees? 

Removing a large tree from your private property becomes necessary in various circumstances. While removing a tree needs to be backed up by council approval, local laws, and a tree removal permit, it’s essential to understand when tree removal is required. 

Disease and decay 

Suppose a tree is diagnosed with severe disease or shows signs of advanced decay. In that case, removal may be necessary to prevent the spread of the condition to other larger trees or native vegetation and to eliminate the risk of falling branches. Additionally, a dying tree may also need to be removed for the same reasons. 

Structural instability 

Trees with compromised structural integrity, often due to storm damage, age, or other factors, pose a significant risk of falling. Removing such trees becomes essential to safeguard people and property from potential hazards. 

Safety concerns 

Trees located close to structures, power lines, or high-traffic areas may need to be removed to eliminate the risk of falling limbs or the entire tree, ensuring the safety of residents, pedestrians, and nearby structures.

Space constraints 

In densely populated areas or confined spaces, the presence of a large tree may limit construction possibilities. Removal becomes necessary to facilitate planned developments and expansions. 

Landscaping and construction 

Property development or landscaping projects may require the removal of large trees to make space for new structures, enhance views, or create a more aesthetically pleasing environment. 

The process of having a tree removed 

Assessment and decision-making 

The first step in tree removal is a thorough assessment of the tree's health and its impact on your property. Consider factors such as:

Health evaluation 

Determine if the tree is diseased, dead, or posing a risk to structures or people. It will also need to be determined whether the species in question is a protected tree, and, if so, whether removal can be completed. 

Location and space 

Assess the tree's proximity to buildings, utility lines, and other structures, as well as the available space for safe removal. 

Permit check 

Investigate local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for tree removal in your area. It’s important you understand all tree removal permit requirements before beginning the task. 

Planning and preparation 

Once the decision to remove the tree is made, meticulous planning is crucial for a smooth process. This involves:

Selecting the right method 

Choose between direct felling, sectional dismantling, or the use of specialised equipment like cranes for precise removal. 

Clearing the area 

Remove any obstacles and create a safe working zone around the tree. 

Safety gear 

Ensure the tree removal team is equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including helmets, gloves, and eye protection. 

Tree climbing and limbing 

For trees that can't be felled in one piece, skilled arborists may need to climb the tree and dismantle it in sections:

Climbing techniques 

Use industry-standard climbing techniques to ascend the tree safely.   

Limbing 

Systematically remove branches from the bottom to the top to ensure controlled dismantling. 

Felling or rigging 

Depending on the tree's size and location, choose between felling and rigging techniques: 

Felling 

If space allows, fell the tree in one piece with strategic cuts to control the direction of the fall. 

Rigging

For confined spaces or trees close to structures, use rigging techniques involving ropes, pulleys, and cranes for controlled dismantling. 

Stump removal 

Once the main part of the tree is removed, address the remaining stump with any of these methods.

Stump grinding 

Utilise specialised equipment to grind the stump into wood chips. 

Excavation 

Physically remove the stump, tree trunk, and surrounding roots if necessary. 

Clean-up and site restoration 

After the tree and stump are removed, it's time to tidy up: 

Wood disposal 

Your property can get messy after tree removals. Dispose of tree debris responsibly, either through chipping or hauling away. 

Replanting 

Consider planting a new tree or landscaping the area for a fresh look. This will help with the vegetation protection overlay.  

Site restoration 

Level the ground, fill any holes, and restore the site to its natural state. 

Should I seek assistance when removing trees?

Seeking professional assistance when contemplating tree removal is not only advisable but often essential. Removing trees, especially large ones, involves inherent risks and complexities that demand specialised knowledge and equipment. 

Certified arborists possess the expertise to assess the health of the tree, identify potential hazards, and determine the most appropriate removal method. Additionally, they are well-versed in local council regulations and tree removal laws, ensuring compliance with permits and guidelines.

Ultimately, enlisting professional assistance ensures not only the safe and effective removal of the tree but also promotes environmental responsibility by addressing the ecological impact of the removal. When it comes to removing a tree on your property, the wisdom lies in entrusting the task to those who offer knowledge, experience, and a commitment to safety. 

Let our experts handle the tree removal process for you

When it comes to the intricate and sometimes challenging task of tree removal, entrusting the job to seasoned professionals is paramount. At Trav's Trees, our team of experts are dedicated to managing the entire tree removal process with precision and care. Backed by years of experience and arboricultural knowledge, our professionals are adept at assessing the health and safety considerations of large trees, ensuring a meticulous planning process.