If a tree is causing damage to your property or is nearing the end of its life, you may need to have it removed. While this isn’t an easy decision to make, it can be necessary to preserve your yard and protect yourself from potential dangers.

To prepare for this process, clear the area of any breakable items that could fall during the removal. This will make it easier for the professionals to do their job safely.

If you have a problem tree in your yard, it’s important to identify what’s wrong with it. This will help you determine whether or not you can get a professional to remove it and whether you need a permit.

Take note of any unusual coloration, fungus, or dead leaves. This is a clear sign that the tree is unhealthy. It could also mean that the tree has a disease that is spreading to nearby plants and trees. If this is the case, it’s better to have the tree removed before the disease spreads.

Another common sign of a bad tree is a large amount of decay in its trunk. A damaged trunk can’t properly transport nutrients and water throughout the tree, which can be fatal for it. This is usually a sign of serious health issues that need to be addressed immediately.

Look for vertical cracks and seams, large, old wounds, and a general lack of growth in the main branches. This is an indication of a compromised trunk strength, which can cause the tree to be unstable and dangerous in stormy weather.

You should also pay attention to a tree’s directional orientation. If it leans in a certain direction, it can easily fall over when blown by the wind. It’s also important to consider your escape route if it does happen to fall in the wrong direction.

Also keep an eye out for root damage. If a tree’s roots are causing damage to your sidewalk, house foundation, or other structures on your property, it might be time to have the tree removed. This is especially true if the roots are growing into your house.

It’s also worth mentioning that some tree species are more susceptible to diseases and pests than others. If you have a species that’s prone to breaking or dying, drops debris frequently, grows into power lines and roof overhangs, or produces roots that damage your lawn and sidewalks, it might be best to have it removed at the first sign of trouble. The same goes for trees that are near a body of water, in a rocky area, on a slope, or under power lines.

Getting Permission

Some locations require permits or special permissions before a tree can be felled, whether for preservation reasons or to comply with city ordinances. It is best to check with a local arborist to find out what the rules are for your area.

In Phoenix, for example, it is legal to remove trees on private property unless they pose a danger to the home. However, the city does have a visibility ordinance that states no trees should be removed within 10 feet of intersections, or they will be considered to be in violation of the law.

There are exceptions to this rule, but it is still best to speak with a local arborist before beginning any work. Many cities have zoning laws that protect specific types of trees, and it is not uncommon for them to be protected for sentimental, environmental, or economic reasons. Generally, these trees cannot be cut down without the express permission of the commissioner for that area.

The same is true for public properties. In Raleigh, for example, public trees that are on the right-of-way or near sidewalks must have a permit before being removed. This is also true for a tree that is a champion or conservation type, as well as any other tree that has been designated as such by the city’s Urban Forester.

In Montpelier, on the other hand, the city tree board can allow the removal of a private tree if they feel it poses a health or safety risk to the community. They will then notify the homeowner, who can proceed with the work after they have been given permission.

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to apply for a permit by calling or visiting your city’s website and finding out how to do so. In some cases, you will be required to submit a site map along with the application and to fill out an official form.

If you have any questions, you should always call before submitting an application for a permit. If you try to evade the process by removing a tree without a permit, you could be fined for trespassing or face a lawsuit from your neighbors.

Assessing the Tree’s Health

It’s important to assess the health of a tree before any work is done. There are several factors that can affect a tree’s health including bacteria, insects, fungal growth, chemical agents like pollution/contamination, machinery damage, soil conditions, moisture levels and the weather. A tree that is suffering from any of these issues may not be able to withstand harsh climate conditions and might be at risk for falling over during a storm.

One of the best ways to determine whether a tree is healthy or not is by testing its branches and trunk. A healthy tree should have twigs that bend easily without breaking. You can also test the trunk by gently scraping the surface. A healthy tree’s bark should be firm and white, while a diseased or damaged one could appear discolored and mushy.

If you notice cracks, wounds, large fungi or missing bark, it’s a good idea to consult with an expert. These signs indicate structural damage and might be an indicator of a serious disease or infestation. You should also be on the lookout for any signs of rot, especially in the roots and trunk. Mushrooms growing near the base of a tree can be an indication of cavities and heart rot, while brown or mushy roots are a sign of poor root health.

A professional arborist can help you assess the health of your trees and recommend proper treatment or care. They can also advise you on whether a tree should be removed. If a tree has been damaged severely and its health has deteriorated significantly it might be time to remove it.

However, if a tree was in relatively good health before it was damaged it might be possible to restore its condition. If a tree is sentimentally significant or is an integral part of your landscape, it might be worth trying to save it.

Getting the Job Done

When the time comes to remove a tree, it is important to work with a professional service. They will have the equipment and experience necessary to remove the tree safely and quickly. A good service will also have a strong reputation in the industry and a solid customer base. If you are unsure of what company to choose, ask for references and check online reviews. This will help you find a company that is best for your needs.

Before starting the removal process, make sure that your property is ready for the workers to get to work. One day before you plan on removing the tree, thoroughly saturate the soil surrounding it. This will soften the ground and make it much easier for your tree removal team to get to work. Additionally, remove any outdoor furniture, vehicles, fire pits, and other lawn accessories from the area. Also, keep people and pets at least double the distance of the tree’s height away from it.

Depending on the size and location of your tree, there are different ways to remove it. For example, if it is too close to your house or other structures, it might need to be felled (cut down). This is typically done using a large saw and can be dangerous for non-professionals.

If the tree is still healthy, it may be best to simply remove it in sections. This can be done with the use of a crane or a bucket truck. For larger limbs, the tree removal service may attach them to a piece of equipment called a chipper. The debris is then taken away in a truck for disposal.

Before hiring a tree removal service, ensure they are licensed and insured. This will protect your home and possessions from damage if anything goes wrong while the workers are on your property. You can do this by asking for access to their insurance policies and checking for liability coverage alongside worker’s compensation. This will ensure that if any items are damaged, you will be reimbursed.