In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of safely removing a large pine tree that was causing damage to a public sidewalk. Large trees, such as the one we removed, can create tripping hazards when their roots lift the concrete. Whether you’re tackling a similar issue or just curious about the process, we’ll show you each step.
Step 1: Assess the Situation and Get Proper Approval
The pine tree we removed was approximately 120 feet tall and located just 5-6 feet from the public sidewalk. It had caused significant damage by lifting the concrete. Before starting, ensure you have approval from your local authorities, as removing a tree this size often requires permits, especially when it affects public property.
Step 2: Climbing and Trimming the Tree
We started by climbing the tree and trimming the branches. This helps make the trunk more manageable when it’s time to cut. Our team used a small chainsaw to cut branches while working their way up. Some of the larger branches were lowered carefully using a rope to avoid damaging nearby structures, like a light post.
Step 3: Removing Branches and Debris
Once the larger branches were cut, we chipped most of the debris using a wood chipper. Larger branches were cut into smaller sections for firewood. The key here is to keep the workspace clean and safe, removing branches as they fall to prevent any hazards on the ground.
Step 4: Cutting the Main Tree Trunk
After removing the branches, it was time to cut the trunk in manageable sections. Starting from the top, we cut sections around 32 inches long. As we worked our way down, the trunk became thicker, so we used larger chainsaws and wedging techniques to separate the cuts and safely drop the sections.
Step 5: Dealing with Heavier Sections
As the trunk became too thick for the smaller chainsaw, we lowered a larger chainsaw with a rope. We also used wedges to separate sections of the trunk and prevent the chainsaw from getting stuck. Our team on the ground helped pull the trunk sections down with ropes, as they became heavier towards the base of the tree.
Step 6: Removing the Stump and Roots
Once the trunk was cut down, we moved on to stump removal. The massive roots that had damaged the sidewalk needed to be ground down, which will be covered in a future post.
Final Results
After removing the tree and grinding down the stump, the area was clean, and the tripping hazard was eliminated. By the time we finished, the sunlight in the area increased dramatically, opening up the space. The tree had been in place for 38 years, and we found out by counting its rings!
If you’re dealing with a large tree removal near public property, this process can help guide you safely. While some tasks can be handled DIY, we recommend hiring professionals for tree removal of this size to ensure safety and efficiency.
Video Tutorial:
Watch the full step-by-step video on how to remove a large pine tree that damaged a public sidewalk: