Trees are a great addition to our yards! They improve curb appeal when well maintained and provide needed shade when the sun is hot. However, trees also become dangerous when they grow old, and the best thing might be to cut them down. But before you call a tree removal company to get rid of a tree in your compound, you might want to get familiar with the tree laws in your county. So, do you need a tree removal permit to cut down an unwanted tree in your yard?
Do I need a permit for tree removal?
The rules surrounding cutting down trees vary from city to city. Some city governments require you to apply for a permit to cut down specific species like oak trees. You must pay a fee and wait for the city officials to come and inspect the tree before getting a permit. However, some cities are relatively flexible and will let you cut down a tree in your yard when you see fit. Because of this, you need to check with your local administration regarding the law on tree removal on private property.
How do I get a permit to cut down a tree?
To get a tree removal permit, you need to fill and submit an application form. You will have to indicate the tree species you want to cut down, its location in your yard, and so forth. After submitting it with the local administration, they might ask you for additional information, such as who owns adjacent properties or what measures are being taken if there is any danger of the tree falling on someone else’s property. They will then inspect and let you cut down the tree only if it is safe. They might ask you to take specific measures to remove branches that can break and fall off or stabilize the tree with support cables. Once they confirm that the tree is safe to cut down, they will permit you to remove it from your yard.
What happens if I don’t get a permit?
This is a serious offense! You can be fined or imprisoned for tree removal without taking the necessary steps to get a tree removal permit first. To avoid this hassle, always check with the local administration before removing any tree in your yard! If your tree causes damage, you are liable to pay compensation as well.
When is it necessary to cut down a tree in your yard?
Nobody wants to cut down trees, but sometimes that’s the best course of action. Here are scenarios where you might be forced to remove a tree from your property:
When it is too old
A dead tree poses a danger to anything adjacent when it falls. When a tree reaches a certain age, the roots become weak and can no longer hold it firmly to the ground. Dead trees can also lead to costly damages and even put the safety of your household in jeopardy. The best way to avoid such a situation is to cut it down while you still have time.
When it is pest infested
Sometimes, pests can take refuge in trees on your property and decide to establish a colony. This can spell trouble for your compound; especially if you are growing crops, they consider food. It gets even worse when they are in large numbers, and controlling them becomes almost impossible. The only thing to do here is to get rid of their habitat by cutting down the tree.
When it causes damage
Sometimes, branches from your trees might fall and hit cars or windows in your compound. This puts anybody standing anywhere near the tree’s path at risk! Tree branches also cause damage to roofs and may even fall on top of them. If you have a large private property tree that is causing problems, the best thing to do would be to cut it down before something serious happens. Note that you risk liability when the branches fall off and damage your neighbor’s property.
When it interferes with utility lines
Sometimes, a tree in your yard might interfere with power or water supply lines running through your property. If you are not careful, it can lead to damage and even death if the cables break off! To avoid this scenario, communicate with the power or water supply companies before taking any action. You might have to apply for their permission first to cut down trees growing near their lines.
When it is diseased
Diseases can be a significant setback for your trees. You might have done everything you could to prevent them from spreading, but it is still not enough! If the disease affects a big part of the tree and decays much of its trunk or branches, there’s no way around cutting down that entire dead tree.
Can I cut down a tree on my own?
It is usually better to leave tree-cutting procedures to professionals. However, you can cut down a tree on your own if it’s relatively small and grows in the countryside where no power lines run through. But before taking any action, make sure that:
-You have all the required tools for the process
-Your safety measures are in place (safety glasses, gloves, hard hat etc.)
-You have the necessary experience to do this safely
-It is not harmful or illegal in your area
Why should I call a professional tree removal service?
A certified arborist knows how to assess the overall health of a tree and can tell you what needs to be done. They have all the necessary tools for this task, including protective gear to ensure your safety during this process. A qualified arborist will also know where utility lines are laid out on your property and will cut down the tree safely.
Need tree removal?
If you need a tree removed from your property, contact Abor City Tree Care for professional help. We will send an expert to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action. If you have questions about our tree removal Vancouver WA services, feel free to contact us!