Tree felling tutorial
Tree felling tutorial
Safe and efficient tree felling on your property - a step-by-step guide.
Felling a tree may seem complicated and risky, but with good preparation and the right work organization, it can be done at home. On this page, you will find practical advice on how to fell a tree safely, assess the situation, and when to call in a professional. All steps are structured in a simple and logical order to help you carry out the felling confidently and safely.
Do you need a logging permit?
Before felling a tree, make sure you have a permit. For example, in Tallinn, a felling permit must be applied for from the Environmental Board if the trunk diameter is more than 8 cm (measured from a height of 1.3 m). This is usually not required for shrubs and fruit trees.
Required equipment
Protective equipment (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, foot protection)
Chainsaw (sharpened, in working order, fuel tank full, chain oil checked)
Rope, axe, ladder, basket lift
First aid supplies at hand
The chainsaw must be sharpened to make accurate and safe cuts. A basket lift can be helpful if the tree is tall and thinning needs to start from the top.
Assess the condition of the tree
Properly assessing the condition of a tree before felling is crucial for both safety and job planning. A seemingly healthy tree may be hollow or unstable inside, and felling in the wrong direction can cause damage to buildings, fences, or power lines. Visual assessment also helps prevent unexpected situations, such as dead branches breaking during felling or the tree getting wedged against other trees. The better you are aware of the risks and obstacles, the safer and smoother the entire process will be.
Is the tree leaning or crooked?
Does the tree have dead or broken branches?
Does the tree pose a threat to buildings or people?
Is there enough free space in the direction of fall?
Are there other trees nearby that could interfere?
Step-by-step lowering
Plan the felling direction
Choose a safe and level place to fall the tree. If the tree leans to one side, fall in that direction.
Check the inside of the tree
Tap with an axe – if it sounds hollow, it is easier to cut there. A dull sound indicates dense wood.
Make incisions
The first horizontal cut forward – not too deep, 25% of the trunk.
Second, diagonal cut – remove the triangular wedge.
Support cut at the back, leave the support strip.
Follow the fall and the path of retreat
If a tree starts to fall, move away diagonally and keep your eye on the tree. Ensure an escape route.
We always recommend consulting a professional – even if you want to do the work yourself, an expert can provide valuable advice.
Cutting tree roots
Root pruning should only be done when necessary:
If the tree threatens the foundation or has grown too large.
After cutting the roots, you may need to remove the entire tree.
Summary
Felling a tree requires preparation and knowledge. If you lack experience or confidence, hire an arborist . This can save both your property and your health.
Would you like more information?
See Puuekspert.ee