One of the important dividing lines in our line of work as Hudson Valley tree removal experts is the DIY route vs. professional route for homeowners and business owners. There are scenarios where it’s possible to “do it yourself,” and there are other factors related to skill, safety, equipment, risks and complexity where you should absolutely hire a professional. In this blog post, we’re going to go over some of those factors.
Legality
Before you remove or significantly alter a tree on your property, check your local town or village laws. Many Hudson Valley and Catskills towns regulate tree removal near roadways, even if it’s on your private property, since trees are considered important for public welfare, aesthetics, and safety.
Key considerations include:
- Private Property Restrictions: In some areas, even trees on private property (e.g., shade trees or trees near public streets) are subject to regulation and may require permits for removal.
- Dead or Dangerous Trees: Some towns allow immediate removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees without a permit, though documentation might still be necessary.
- Permit Applications: Where permits are required, you’ll often need to file an application with the town or village, sometimes including a fee and approval from a specific commission or board.
- Financial Responsibility: Homeowners are often responsible for maintenance or removal costs for regulated trees on or near their property.
To avoid fines or disputes, contact your local government or planning department to confirm specific requirements for your area. Or, to avoid having to do any of that, contact us to schedule a consultation about your tree; we can help you navigate how to legally and safely remove your tree.
Tree Size
Whether you can cut your own tree down or should hire a professional depends on a variety of factors related to safety, skill, equipment, and the complexity of the job. The size of the tree is one of those factors; if it’s on the smaller side, under 15 feet tall, and the trunk diameter is manageable with a handsaw or small handheld chainsaw, under 6-8 inches, then you may be able to cut it yourself.
Tree Location
After considering the size of your tree, you should check: is your tree is far from power lines, structures like homes, sheds, and gardens, and other hazards? Is there ample space for the tree to fall without damage?
Tools, Equipment and Experience
Do you have tools like an axe, saw, chainsaw, and understand how to use them for basic tree-cutting techniques like felling cuts? Can you assess risks like dead limbs and hidden rot? Do you have safety gear like gloves, helmets, goggles and sturdy boots? Then you may be able to cut down a small tree in an ideal location.
When You Should Hire a Professional
If your tree is larger than 15 feet, or has a large heavy trunk, an extensive root system, or is leaning heavily, then you should not attempt to do anything with it without a licensed professional tree company, which will have the professional-grade equipment like cranes, ropes and harnesses to safely handle the job. If the tree is near a home, power lines, roads, or other structures, then you definitely need professional assistance to avoid damage and liability. If the tree is diseased or rotting, or has dead limbs, then for your own safety, you should not attempt to manage the tree yourself.
Finally, a licensed tree removal company will be able to arrange the post-removal work like stump removal, wood disposal and site cleanup to make sure your property is ready for the next thing after the tree.
When in doubt, consult with a licensed, professional tree removal company for an assessment—we can help you decide whether the tree can be tackled on your own or if it’s better left to the pros.