Chopping down a tree is definitely a big undertaking, but it’s not as hard as you might think. As long as you have the right equipment and take some precautions, you can safely fell a tree on your own. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide through this straightforward process.

1

Check that there are no hazards or other obstructions nearby.

  1. Make sure there's enough space for the tree to fall without hitting anything. Roughly estimate the tree’s total height, then check that there are no buildings, structures, or power lines that your tree could collide with after you cut it down. While you’re at it, make sure that no people, pets, or other obstacles are anywhere in this radius, either.[1]
    • Postpone your tree-felling plans for another day if the upcoming weather forecast calls for rain or wind.[2]
    • Play it safe and consult a tree-felling professional for a second opinion if you’re worried about your tree’s location.
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2

Grab your chainsaw and safety gear.

  1. Safety equipment helps keep you protected as you work with your chainsaw. Always slide into a pair of sturdy, close-toed shoes, like leather boots, so your feet are completely protected. To guard your arms and legs, wear chainsaw chaps or pants, as well as a long-sleeved top. Then, put on a hard hat and some goggles to protect your head and eyes. Wear work gloves and earmuffs or earplugs, too.[3]
    • Experts suggest using a chainsaw to chop down most trees. An ax will work if you’re handling a really small tree or sapling; otherwise, a chainsaw is your best bet.[4]
    • A chainsaw with a 16 to 18 in (41 to 46 cm) bar is a good choice for small- or medium-sized trees, while a 20 to 24 in (51 to 61 cm) bar is a better option for bigger trees. Use a larger bar if you’re planning to cut a large tree into firewood, too.
    • In general, only chop down trees that have a smaller diameter than the length of your chainsaw.[5] For example, you wouldn’t use a 24 in (61 cm) chainsaw to fell a 30 in (76 cm) wide tree.
6

Cut the first half of the notch.

  1. Create the notch on the side of the tree where you’d like it to fall. Stand to the right of where you’ll be cutting the notch. While holding the chainsaw horizontally, cut into the trunk at a 70-degree angle—this cut will be the first part of your notch.[13] Continue slicing until you’ve cut about ⅓ of the way into the tree trunk.[14]
    • Picture this notch as a triangle. The outer tree bark makes up one side of the triangle. During this step, you’ll be creating the long, diagonal edge of your triangle.
    • Always wear your helmet, goggles, gloves, and ear protection before you turn on and use your chainsaw.

Warnings

  • Double-check for any obstacles before you start chopping down any trees. Also, make sure the tree is a safe distance away from your home and any other nearby buildings.[22]
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  • If you aren’t experienced with chainsaws, consider renting or buying a reduced kickback saw chain. It’s slower than other types of chainsaws, but it’s a lot safer to use.[23]
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  • Never use a chainsaw without the proper safety equipment, like sturdy boots, safety glasses, work gloves, long pants, and earplugs.[24]
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  • Never look away from the chainsaw bar while chopping down a tree.[25]
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About This Article

Lauren Kurtz
Co-authored by:
Professional Gardener
This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014. This article has been viewed 95,978 times.
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Co-authors: 31
Updated: July 21, 2022
Views: 95,978
Article SummaryX

Before chopping down a tree, check the area around you to make sure there are no hazards. For example, look for things that the tree could fall on, such as buildings, vehicles, or power lines. Try to choose a day when there won’t be a lot of wind or rain, since this could affect how the tree falls. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves, sturdy work boots, a hard hat, and goggles to protect yourself while you work. Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the tree you’re cutting down. For instance, use a 16 to 18 in (41 to 46 cm) chainsaw for small to medium trees, and a 20 to 24 in (51 to 61 cm) for larger trees. Use pruning shears to cut away any undergrowth at the base of the tree and move the debris out of the way. Stand on the opposite side of the tree from the direction it will fall. You can usually determine the fall direction by observing the natural lean of the tree—it should fall in the direction it’s leaning. Turn yourself 45° to the left and make sure there’s a clear path in that direction in case the tree starts to fall toward you. Make sure you also have a clear path 90° to your right in case you need an alternate escape route. Then, go around to the side of the tree where you’d like it to fall and cut a notch about 1/3 of the way into the trunk with your saw. Make the cut downward at a 70° angle. Then, make a horizontal cut directly under the first cut to remove a triangular wedge of wood. Go to the other side of the tree and line up your saw with the bottom edge of the notch you made, then cut across the trunk horizontally to the notch on the other side in a smooth motion. When there’s about 10% of the trunk left between the notch and the cut on the other side, the tree should start to fall. Turn on the brake on your chainsaw and pull it out of the tree, then quickly move a safe distance away using your planned escape route. Move backward so you can keep watching the tree to make sure it isn’t falling in your direction.

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