Felling is the process of cutting down a standing tree. Before beginning, plan the direction of the fall, clear the surrounding area, and prepare a safe retreat path.
This procedure is for chain-saw operation.
If you are using a pole saw or a convertible pole + chain saw, follow the operator's manual for the correct configuration and cutting procedure. Normal pole-saw operation is intended for pruning and cutting limbs rather than this tree-felling procedure.
Safety Before Felling
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Protective equipment for the head, hands, legs, and feet is also recommended.
- Hold the chain saw firmly with both hands while cutting.
- Keep both feet on solid ground and maintain secure footing.
- Do not operate the chain saw while in a tree, on a ladder, or on a scaffold.
- Keep your body to the left of the chain line.
- Do not cut above chest height.
Keep everyone away from the felling area. The manual specifies a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being felled.
Check the Tree + Surroundings
Tree Condition
Look Up First
Check for damaged or dead branches that could fall during the felling process.
Fall Direction
Evaluate the Tree
Consider the natural lean of the tree, the position of larger branches, and the wind direction before deciding the expected direction of fall.
Ground Conditions
Stay Uphill
When working on sloped terrain, remain on the uphill side because a felled tree may roll or slide downhill.
Do not fell trees during high wind or heavy precipitation.
Do not cut down trees with an extreme lean or large trees with rotten limbs, loose bark, or hollow trunks.
Plan + Clear Your Retreat Path
Before making any cuts, plan and clear an escape path.
The retreat path should extend back and diagonally away from the expected line of fall.
Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the area of the tree where you will make the cuts.
How to Fell the Tree
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Make the Notching Undercut
Make a notch approximately one-third of the tree's diameter, perpendicular to the intended direction of fall.
Make the lower horizontal notching cut first. This helps reduce the chance of pinching the saw chain or guide bar when the second notch cut is made.
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Make the Felling Back Cut
Make the back cut at least 2 inches (50 mm) higher than the horizontal notching cut.
Keep the back cut parallel to the horizontal notching cut.
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Leave Hinge Wood
Position the back cut so enough wood remains between the notch and back cut to act as a hinge.
The hinge helps prevent the tree from twisting or falling in an unintended direction. Do not cut through the hinge.
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Watch the Tree as You Cut
As the back cut approaches the hinge, the tree should begin to fall. Continue monitoring the tree's direction while cutting.
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Stop if the Tree Does Not Move as Expected
If the tree may not fall in the intended direction or begins to rock back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting before the back cut is complete.
The approved procedure allows wedges made of wood, plastic, or aluminum to be used to open the cut and help direct the tree along the intended line of fall.
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Retreat When the Tree Begins to Fall
Remove the chain saw from the cut, stop the motor, and put the chain saw down.
Move away using the retreat path you prepared. Stay alert for falling overhead limbs and watch your footing.
Important Felling Reminders
- Do not fell a tree in a way that could endanger another person, strike a utility line, or cause property damage.
- If a felled tree contacts a utility line, notify the utility company immediately.
- If bucking and felling are happening at the same time, the two work areas should be separated by at least twice the height of the tree being felled.
- Allow the saw chain to reach full speed before it enters the wood.
- Let the chain do the cutting and use only light downward pressure. Do not force the saw.
If the tree begins falling in the wrong direction or the chain saw becomes caught during the fall, leave the saw and move away from the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should the notch be?
Make the notch approximately one-third of the tree's diameter.
Which notch cut should I make first?
Make the lower horizontal notching cut first.
How high should the back cut be?
The felling back cut should be at least 2 inches (50 mm) higher than the horizontal notching cut.
Should I cut completely through the hinge?
No. Leave enough wood to act as a hinge. Do not cut through the hinge.
Where should I stand when felling on a slope?
Stay on the uphill side of the terrain because the tree may roll or slide downhill after it falls.
Can I use my pole saw to follow this tree-felling procedure?
This procedure is for chain-saw operation. Pole-saw operation uses separate cutting and pruning procedures. If your model converts between a pole saw and chain saw, follow the operator's manual for the correct configuration before cutting.
Find Your Electric Chain Saw or Pole Saw
Visit the Shop Joe Chainsaws + Pole Saws collection to locate your model and review its product information.
Always review the operator's manual for your exact model before felling a tree to confirm the saw's intended use and cutting limits.
If you need help identifying your model or locating the correct guidance, Shop Joe Customer Care can help.