How to Cut Down a Tree Safely

Cutting down a tree may seem straightforward, but it requires careful planning, proper technique, and the right equipment to be done safely. In this video and guide, This Old House landscaping expert Roger Cook and chainsaw safety expert Tim Ard walk you through how to fell a tree correctly and safely using a chainsaw.

If you have any doubts, it’s best to hire a professional tree service. Also, consult with local authorities to determine if any permits are needed or if legal requirements need to be followed when cutting down trees in certain areas or from protected species.

Assess the Tree and Its Surroundings

Before you start up your chainsaw,  evaluate the tree and its surroundings to determine the safest way to take down your tree.

Look up and around the tree to identify any potential hazards such as overhead wires, nearby structures or other trees.

Identify the tree’s natural lean and the direction you want it to fall. Choose a target zone where the tree can safely land without causing damage. Aim for a clear, open space free from obstacles such as utility lines, buildings, and other trees. Consider factors such as:

• The tree’s weight distribution
• Wind direction
• Surrounding landscape features
• Whether it leans forward, backward, sideways, etc., relative to the direction you want it to fall

If any obstacles are in the way or you think they could complicate the project, consider hiring a professional tree service to handle the job.

Plan an Escape Route

Safety should be a primary consideration when cutting down a tree. Ard emphasizes the importance of planning a clear escape path before making cuts. The tree could fall in unexpected ways, so make sure you can quickly get out of harm’s way:

• Find a route that leads about 15- 20 feet away from the tree
• Make sure the path is free of obstacles
• Move away at a 45-degree angle from the fall line

Prepare for to Cut the Tree

With the initial assessment complete, it’s time to prepare for the cutting process.

Protective equipment and well-maintained tools are essential for preventing injuries from chainsaw mishaps and falling debris. Here are the necessary tools and safety gear:

• Chainsaw with a sharp chain
• Helmet with face shield and hearing protection
• Chainsaw chaps
• Steel-toed boots
• Felling wedges
• Axe or maul for driving wedges
• Gloves for hand protection
• First aid kit

Remove any underbrush or small branches around the tree’s base to clear a working area and make an unobstructed escape route. Keep the area around the tree free of tripping hazards and loose debris that could get in your way while you cut.

Make the Cuts On the Tree

Follow these steps carefully to cut the tree so it falls in the right direction. There are two cuts you’ll need to make: a face cut and a back cut.

Create the Face Cut

The face cut determines the direction of the tree’s fall and when done correctly, will give you better control when it comes down. To make the face cut:

1. Start with the top cut, angling down into the tree at about 45 degrees.
2. Make the bottom cut horizontally, meeting the end of the top cut.
3. Remove the wedge-shaped piece to create an open-face notch.

Create the Back Cut

The back cut releases the tree so it can fall in the direction you’ve selected.

1. Move to the opposite side of the tree from the face cut.
2. Start the back cut slightly higher than the bottom of the face cut.
3. Saw horizontally into the tree, leaving about 1 inch of uncut wood as a hinge to guide the fall.

As you make the back cut, be prepared to stop sawing and quickly back up along your escape route as soon as the tree begins to fall.

Use Felling Wedges

Once the tree falls, felling wedges can help you minimize tension and safely remove the tree from the trunk base.

1. Slide a plastic or wood wedge underneath the tree. 
2. Cut straight down about halfway into the trunk.
3. Insert a second wedge into the saw kerf.
4. Continue cutting all the way down through the trunk.

Managing Larger Trees

Larger trees present additional safety challenges and may require more advanced techniques. For these trees, consider using guide ropes for additional guidance and support to help you control the fall’s direction. Contact a professional for more help.

Post Tree Felling Cleanup

Once the tree is on the ground, the clean-up begins. 

Start by removing the branches from the felled tree. Do this carefully and systematically to avoid injury, and use particular caution when cutting branches that are under tension. They could spring back unexpectedly when cut.

1. Begin at the base and work your way up.
2. Stand on the uphill side of the tree on a slope.
3. Use the chainsaw to cut through smaller branches, followed by slightly larger branches. Drag the cut limbs out of the way.
4. Make an offset cut to sever very large limbs by first cutting straight down about two-thirds of the way into the limb. 
5. Cut up from beneath the limb, positioning the cut 1 inch beyond the top cut. 
6. Cut up until the severed limb falls away.

Buck the Trunk

“Bucking” is the process of cutting the trunk into manageable sections. Pay close attention to avoid injury, chainsaw malfunctions, and damage to the tree, especially if you plan to use the wood:

1. For smaller diameter sections, make a straight cut from top to bottom.
2. For larger sections, use an offset cut to prevent the saw from binding:
3. Cut about two-thirds of the way through from the top.
4. Make a second cut from the bottom, offset by about an inch.
5. The section will fall away cleanly.

Stack and Remove Wood

Organize the cut wood for easy removal or future use. Properly stacked and well-ventilated wood prevents mold and rot as well. Stack firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area, but consider leaving some logs for wildlife habitat, if appropriate.

Tree Cutting Safety Considerations

Throughout the tree-cutting process, safety should be your top priority. Always wear the appropriate safety gear to reduce the risk of injury from flying debris, chainsaw accidents, and falling branches. It should be a non-negotiable for anyone handling tree-felling jobs to use:

• Helmet with face shield
• Hearing protection
• Chainsaw chaps
• Steel-toed boots
• Work gloves

Chainsaw Safety

Here are some tips for properly handling and maintaining a chainsaw. Regularly check the equipment to prevent malfunctions that could lead to severe injuries.

• Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned.
• Use both hands to operate the saw.
• Don’t cut with the tip of the bar to avoid kickback.
• Engage the chain brake when moving between cuts.

Work with a Partner

Never work alone when felling trees. A partner can:

• Help assess the situation
• Watch for falling branches
• Assist with wedges and equipment
• Call for help in case of an emergency

Stay Safe During Cleanup

Safety does not end with cutting down the tree. Remember to use correct posture and lifting techniques to avoid back injuries while moving heavy logs. Keep your workspace clean and organized to minimize the risk of trips and falls.

Emergency Preparedness

Be prepared for emergencies by having a communication plan in place. Make sure that cell phones are within reach and you know the location of the nearest medical center. Try to find a partner trained in first aid to help treat and minimize injuries on-site.