How to Cut Down a Redwood Tree

Some Redwoods are among the biggest trees in the world.

Several varieties of Redwood trees grow in the United States. Before you cut one down, check with your local forestry service or permit office to determine if a permit is required and if your situation meets the requirements for cutting down the tree. Often, if you cut down a tree in a residential area, you can receive a fine if you do not have a permit. Does this Spark an idea?

Print this article

Chainsaw

Instructions

- 1
  
  Figure out the direction you need the tree to fall. To do this, make sure you have a debris field as long as the tree is tall that is free of obstructions. If possible, choose the side that the tree leans to. This makes it easier for the height of the tree to force the tree over after you cut it.
- 2
  
  Plan an escape route that is free of objects that could cause you to trip. Preparedness will help to keep you safe when cutting a tall tree.
- 3
  
  Cut into the tree with the chainsaw on the side of the tree that faces the direction you want the tree to fall. Keep the cut parallel with the ground and place the cut approximately 12 inches off the ground. Cut through 33 percent of the tree. This is called the undercut.
- 4
  
  Go to the other side of the tree opposite the undercut and create the back cut. To do this, cut into the tree approximately 2 inches higher than you placed the undercut. Cut through 66 percent of the tree while keeping the saw parallel with the ground. This creates a hinge. Since the undercut is lower than the back cut, the tree falls toward the undercut.
- 5
  
  Turn off the saw and take your escape route when you hear the tree cracking or when you see the tree starting to pitch to one side. Even though chainsaws are loud, you will most likely hear the tree cracking due to its size. Do not approach the tree until it falls to the ground.

Tips & Warnings

If you do not have enough room to create a safe debris field, contact a professional tree felling service. Never get onto a ladder with a chainsaw and attempt to cut the tree in half. If the tree does not react to the cut as it should, the tree could fall toward you, knocking you off the ladder with a running chainsaw. Often tree fellers use specialized equipment to cut down trees with small debris fields.

Suggest item