Tree Lopping for Beginners

Trees can create a wonderful outlook and environment for homes and businesses, but what happens when you want a tree removed or a tree is diseased? It’s not always advisable to keep trees in every situation – whilst no one likes the concept of removing trees or damaging the natural environment, sometimes trees do need to be removed for safety or other reasons. So if you’ve never had to consider removing a tree but find yourself in that position now, here are some key points to consider. Let’s dive in. ​ Reasons For Tree Removal Some of the reasons for removing trees can include:

• A tree is dead

• A tree or root structure is leaning towards or encroaching too close to your house

• A tree has structural problems, decay or cracks

• A tree was damaged in a storm and is beyond repair

• A tree is unhealthy and is showing signs of its condition

• You are planning landscaping that could damage the tree

• A tree has an infestation that could spread to other trees

• The tree is too large for its location and could be dangerous if branches fall

Northern Beaches Arborist are certified level 3 fully insured arborists with many years of experience in tree cutting, lopping, pruning and branch removal all across the Northern Beaches region. If you’re looking for advice on a tree you’d like to remove, you can contact us for a discussion or a free quote. ​ How to Prune Trees Generally small trees around your house can be maintained and pruned by yourself so long as you follow advice on how to correctly prune each tree species to ensure it stays healthy and strong. When considering pruning larger trees, an arborist will take into account the tree’s natural biology. This is important as improper pruning can sometimes shorten a tree’s life. If you’re looking for tree branch removal or tree cutting services, a local expert like Northern Beaches Arborist can assist with your tree management requirements. ​ Which Trees Can or Cannot Be Removed It’s important to note that there are protected tree species in NSW that cannot be removed. There are several reasons they are protected species. ​ Northern Beaches council and local councils provide further information on which trees can and cannot be removed without a formal application. See further information on species here: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/environment/trees/exempt-tree-species-list Protected or endangered trees in NSW are illegal to remove, even if they are on your property as opposed to council land. You can end up with substantial fines if you are caught without completing the required paperwork. ​ It’s important to note that removal or pruning of protected or endangered tree types need to be submitted to Northern Beaches council (or your local council) first for approval. You will generally need to provide reasons for wanting to remove the tree/s. ​ If a tree species is not considered protected, you can generally remove it from your property if you choose to and are exempt from submitting a request to council. This rule also applies if the tree you are looking to remove is considered invasive or a pest. You should engage the advice of an arborist if you are unsure. ​ It is never recommended that you removal a large tree yourself, but to engage with an experienced arborist like Northern Beaches Arborist who specialize in tree cutting in the Northern Beaches. ​ If you need advice or a quote for removal of a tree, contact our tree management specialists on 0423 914 950.