What is Tree Felling and How is it Done Safely?
Tree felling is one of the most dangerous and technical tasks in arboriculture. Whether it’s a dead tree threatening to fall, a tree making way for development, or simply a diseased specimen that can’t be saved, felling must always be done safely, legally, and by trained professionals.
In this guide, the team at TD Tree & Land Services explains what tree felling means, when it’s necessary, and how it’s carried out safely in the UK.
What is Tree Felling?
Tree felling is the process of cutting down a tree to ground level, usually with the aid of chainsaws, wedges, ropes, and felling cuts to control the direction of the fall. It can be done as:
- Straight felling: Bringing the tree down in one piece (usually in open areas).
- Sectional dismantling: Removing the tree in sections, often from the top down, used in confined spaces like gardens.
It may be done to remove a hazardous tree, create space for development, or improve biodiversity by removing invasive or overcrowded trees.
When is Tree Felling Necessary?
Tree felling isn’t always the first choice, but it becomes necessary when:
- The tree is dead, dying, or structurally unsafe
- It poses a threat to buildings, power lines, or roads
- It’s affected by disease (e.g. ash dieback)
- You’re carrying out land clearance or building work
- Roots are causing subsidence or drainage issues
Do I Need Permission to Fell a Tree in the UK?
Yes – in many cases, especially if the tree is protected. Before felling any tree, you must check:
✔ Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
These protect specific trees or groups of trees. Felling without permission from your local authority can lead to fines of up to £20,000 per offence.
✔ Conservation Areas
If the tree is in a designated conservation area, you must give your local council six weeks’ notice – even for relatively small trees.
✔ Forestry Commission Licences
If you’re felling more than 5 cubic metres of timber in a calendar quarter (and selling more than 2m³), a felling licence may be required under the Forestry Act 1967.
Always check local planning laws before starting any work. TD Trees can handle this process for you.
How Is Tree Felling Done Safely?
Tree felling involves high risk – especially in built-up or windy environments. Qualified tree surgeons follow strict procedures to manage safety:
✔ Step 1: Site Risk Assessment
- Check for hazards (buildings, overhead lines, underground utilities)
- Assess wind direction and slope
- Establish exclusion zones and safe escape routes
✔ Step 2: Choosing the Felling Method
- Straight felling: Done when there’s enough room for the whole tree to fall safely
- Sectional dismantling: Used in tight or urban environments
- Rigging & lowering: Ropes and pulleys guide sections down safely to protect structures
✔ Step 3: Making the Correct Cuts
- Directional notch: Guides the direction of the fall
- Felling cut: Made on the opposite side to release the tree safely
- Hinges and wedges: Used to control speed and angle of fall
Tree surgeons also wear full PPE (helmet, visor, chainsaw trousers, gloves, boots) and use calibrated equipment following LOLER regulations.
What Happens After the Tree Is Felled?
Once the tree is safely on the ground:
- Branches are removed and processed
- Timber is cut, chipped, or removed as required
- The stump can be ground down or left in place
- Waste can be turned into woodchips or mulch, or recycled as firewood
Can I Fell a Tree Myself?
Technically, yes – but it’s strongly discouraged. DIY tree felling is one of the leading causes of serious accidents involving chainsaws in the UK.
- You may breach legal protection unknowingly
- You may fell the tree in the wrong direction
- You risk damaging property, injury, or worse
Always use an NPTC-certified tree surgeon with the proper insurance, equipment, and risk assessments.
When to Call TD Tree & Land Services
If you’re unsure whether a tree needs to be felled – or want it done safely and legally – TD Trees can help. We offer:
- Tree risk assessments
- Permission checks for TPOs and conservation areas
- Safe, professional felling and dismantling
- Eco-friendly waste clearance and replanting advice
Contact us today to book a free consultation or emergency inspection.
FAQs: Tree Felling in the UK
Q: Can I remove a tree without permission?
Not if it’s protected by a TPO or in a conservation area. Always check first.
Q: What time of year is best for felling?
Outside of nesting season (March to August). Winter is often ideal when trees are dormant.
Q: Do I need a felling licence?
Possibly – especially for woodland or multiple trees. TD Trees can advise.
Q: Will my insurance cover tree removal?
If the tree poses a safety risk or has caused damage, your building’s insurance may contribute.
Tree felling is not just about cutting down a tree – it’s about doing it responsibly, safely, and within the law. Whether you need to remove a dangerous tree, clear space for development, or deal with a tree infected by disease, professional help is essential.
TD Tree & Land Services has the experience, training, and equipment to fell trees safely and efficiently – always with the environment and your property in mind.