Ultimate Tree Removal Guide
Trees are an important part of our ecosystem. Without trees, life on the planet would not have prospered like the world we knew today. But, when a tree becomes a risk to property and the community, tree removal is the best route to take.
Tree removal is a project that should be taken lightly. There are many things or factors that you have to consider first before commencing such an endeavour. An ultimate guide is all you need to familiarize yourself with first the dos and don'ts of tree removal.
When to Remove a Tree?
A diseased or severely damaged tree poses a risk to the community. Even though dying or dead trees still offer shade or shelter to wildlife, a complete removal is essential for structurally damaged trees. Additionally, these trees are more likely to fall and could be dangerous to property or even cause an injury.
Here are the leading reasons why a tree needs to be removed:
The Tree is Already Dead
Once a tree is dead, it's no longer beneficial to the environment, such as shade, water retention, and aesthetic appeal. When a tree is already dead, it already has compromised structural integrity, which means it poses a threat to a person or property. Removal of a dead tree is needed, not just to avert the hazards of falling branches. It's also a way to prevent tree diseases from spreading to other healthy trees nearby.
A tree is Showing Signs of Decay or Disease
Does your tree look unhealthy lately? An unhealthy tree is not just unattractive, but it is also quite susceptible to infection and pests. When you have a dying tree, it can harm your home landscape as well. When the time comes that you want to sell your property, your decaying tree will surely be the reason why a potential buyer will say no.
Tree Was Damaged Due to Storm
High winds and Melbourne flooding could cause extensive damage to trees. In fact, strong storm winds could completely uproot, cause stem failure, blow-over, and crown twist trees. Unfortunately, most of these trees will ultimately die and could pose uninvited risks to people and properties. With the help of a reliable arborist, you can sleep soundly knowing that you and your loved ones are safe.
Damage to Structure
It's nice to have a big tree within your yard, but its rigid roots systems and large branches may cause catastrophic damage to the structure through the years. The cost of removing them once they overtake the property is costly. Getting rid of them before they could cause such damage is the most practical and affordable choice. You'll need a tree risk assessment to determine if you need to remove the tree.
Overgrown Limbs
Trees are lovely to look at, especially the lush and healthy ones. However, overgrown tree limbs and branches could cause potential property damage or injury to any individual. In most of these cases, cutting the branches and twigs are the best solution, but if it could cause more danger, then removing them altogether is the only way.
Annoying Shredder
A tree could be a source of unwanted needles, branches, leaves, and sap. If they are around in sensitive areas such as solar panels and carports, cleaning and removing such debris can be taxing and problematic. Tree defects are also one aspect to remember.
Blocking the view
Large and evergreen trees are known to enhance the appeal of your house. But what if they are blocking a particular view or casting a shade? The only solution for this is to cut or remove the tree. However, if it is your neighbour's tree, keep in mind that you cannot just do the project. It would be best to seek assistance from your local office and talk to them personally.
Need for New Construction or Landscaping Site
A tree(s) needs to be removed once a need for them to give way to any construction or landscape projects. Even if they do not cause any interference within the construction site, it may still need to be removed if the tree could block the way of heavy construction equipment.
Interior Decay
Once you have a structural problem like internal decay, it would be best to call an arborist to help you deal with it. In this case, your tree could infect the surrounding trees, or the tree limbs may fall. It would help if you acted right away with this to prevent the issue from worsening.
A tree is Already Crowding the Property
When a tree(s) become overcrowded, it will start competing with others for nutrients. As a result, small trees will no longer thrive as well. It could also lead to poor air circulation and the development of fungal diseases. It would be best to remove the tree early before it becomes a disastrous issue.
Lightning Risk
One of the dangers of having a tree on your property is the threat of lightning. It could not just blow the trunk away but can be extremely dangerous if your house is beside a tree. If you are not sure, make sure to check with the local authority or an arborist if your tree is prone to lightning or not.
No matter what your reason is, why you want to contact an arborist, it is essential to review or determine why you need to remove or cut a tree.
Check for Legalities First
When it comes to tree removal projects in Melbourne, you cannot just pick up an axe or contact an arborist and start grinding. It is essential to contact your local council first. Keep in mind that specific locations prohibit tree removal (s) even if it is within your property. They can only allow you to do so if the tree is dead, dying, hampering telcos, or power lines.
In most cases, you'll still need to request a permit from the authorities, mainly if you are within an environmentally sensitive area like a floodplain or slope. Your city council will be the one who will decide if they will allow you or not. Of course, a proper assessment will be made first.
What are the Requirements for Obtaining a Permit?
Navigating every state and local laws that regulate cutting, trimming, lopping, and removal of the tree could be puzzling. Each one of these councils has its specific set of application processes, laws, and permits. These laws are significant for all the residents and homeowners to be more aware of before starting any tree works project, including shaping and trimming.
It is always best to call or set an appointment with your local urban planning and development office or council that handles such laws or regulations. This is the right thing to do if you don't want to be fined with hefty penalty fees or even end up being charged.
What About Regular Maintenance?
To keep your tree healthy and safe, regular maintenance such as trimming, pruning, shaping, and assessment plays a significant role. Every tree species do require varying levels of attention and care. It is essential because it helps in maintaining the cleanliness of your yard, drain, and roofing.
Regular tree health assessment is an ideal way to guarantee that they are always right and healthy. Even though maintaining your tree's life is essential, local councils have laws that protect every tree in the region so that the ecosystem is protected at all times.
What About My Neighbour's Tree?
A healthy and attractive tree is always good to look at, but what if your neighbour's tree(s) started to become an annoyance? Two conditions will allow you to cut or remove a tree, such as a permit from your local council and, of course, permission from your neighbour that you can trim their tree.
You have to remember that the law that protects vegetation from damage across the states and territories across Australia varies from one another. That is why if you are planning to cut or remove any overhanging branches and twigs from your neighbour's tree, it is a must to be aware of the laws.
What About Street Trees?
They are trees that are located usually on a sidewalk or between your home and the street. They are vital to the urban ecosystem for several reasons, such as adding shade, water retention, and aesthetic value to the community. On the other hand, what if it becomes a nuisance? Can you cut it down?
NO, you cannot cut or remove any street tree without a proper permit. You will need to consult the city office and let them know your concerns. They may send the