Alright, let us talk about taking down a tree on your property here in Kennewick. It might seem easy, but there is a lot more to it than just starting a chainsaw. As a local contractor, our team has seen many situations. We have seen good jobs as well as bad jobs as well as some dangerous situations. Our goal is to give you the real information about what you can handle yourself. We will also tell you when you absolutely need to call in the professionals for your Tree Service in Kennewick.
Before You Even Think About Cutting for Tree Service in Kennewick
First things first, you have to do your homework for your Tree Service project. Do not skip this step. It can save you a lot of trouble as well as potential fines.
- Permits & City Rules for Tree Service: Most residential tree removals in Kennewick do not need a permit. This is true if the tree is on your private property. It also applies if it is not a designated 'heritage' or 'significant' tree. However, if it is in a critical area, you might need one. If it is a designated buffer, you might also need a permit. Projects that are part of a development also need permits from the City of Kennewick Planning Department. The city also has rules about trees blocking sightlines at intersections. Trees overhanging sidewalks also have rules. If you are not sure, it is always best to check with the city. You can also ask a professional like us at Tri Cities Tree Service. Each city in the Tri-Cities has its own rules. What applies in Richland might not apply here for Tree Service.
- Power Lines are Not a Joke for Tree Service: Is your tree anywhere near power lines? If it is close to primary high-voltage lines, Benton PUD handles the pruning or removal. But if it is growing into secondary lines that go directly to your house, you are responsible. Do not touch it. Contact Benton PUD at 509-585-5399. They will disconnect your service for free during work hours so you can safely get the Tree Service work done. Electricity is not something you should do yourself. Any structure within 20 feet of a Benton PUD facility, like power lines or poles, needs prior approval from them for any Tree Service.
- Assess the Tree's Health & Location for Tree Service: Why are you removing it? Is it dead, diseased, or hazardous? Large dead branches are red flags. Cracks in the trunk are also red flags. Hollow spots or fungus at the base are all signs of trouble. If it is leaning dangerously, it needs to come down quickly. If it is threatening your home, driveway, or power lines, it also needs immediate Tree Service. Also, consider its closeness to your house. Its closeness to your garage, fences, or even your neighbor's property is important. The closer it is to structures, the riskier the Tree Service job becomes. It also becomes more complex.
- Best Time for Tree Removal in Kennewick: The dormant season is often the best time for tree removal. This is typically late fall through winter, from November to March. Trees have no leaves then, making them lighter and easier to handle. The ground is often firmer, which means less damage to your yard from heavy equipment. In addition, Tree Service companies are usually less busy. This means you might get a better rate for your Tree Service.
What You Can (Maybe) Do Yourself for Tree Service in Kennewick
For most trees, especially anything over 15-20 feet, tree removal is a job for professionals. The risks of injury or property damage are just too high. But for very small trees, saplings, or shrubs, you might be able to handle it. This is true if they are clearly not near any structures or power lines for your Tree Service in Kennewick.
- Small, Non-Hazardous Trees for Tree Service: We are talking about something you can comfortably cut down with a hand saw. A small electric chainsaw can also work. You must keep both feet on the ground. Think small ornamental trees. Do not think of a mature Lombardy Poplar. Make sure you have a clear felling zone. That is the area where the tree will fall. It must be at least twice the height of the tree. Clear out kids as well as pets as well as anything valuable from the area.
- Safety Gear is Important for Tree Service: If you do attempt it, you need a hard hat. Safety glasses are also needed. Hearing protection as well as gloves as well as sturdy footwear are important. Chainsaws are dangerous. Be aware of kickback as well as pinch points.
- Cutting Technique for Tree Service: Learn how to make proper felling cuts. This usually involves a notch cut on the side you want the tree to fall. Then you make a back cut. Never just cut straight through. If you are not confident, do not do it.
When to Call a Professional for Tree Service in Kennewick (Which is Most of the Time)
If there is any doubt in your mind, call a professional for your Tree Service. It is not worth risking your life. It is also not worth risking your home or your neighbor's property. Here is when you absolutely need to pick up the phone for Tree Service in Kennewick:
- Large or Tall Trees for Tree Service: Anything over 20-30 feet requires specialized equipment. This includes the big Silver Maples or Cottonwoods we see around Kennewick. Equipment like bucket trucks as well as cranes as well as rigging systems are needed.
- Trees Near Structures or Power Lines for Tree Service: This is a big safety risk. Professionals have the training as well as the equipment to remove sections of a tree carefully. They do this without damaging your home or getting electrocuted.
- Hazardous or Diseased Trees for Tree Service: These trees are unpredictable. They can fall unexpectedly. They can also have weak spots you cannot see. An arborist can assess the risk properly for your Tree Service.
- Complex Situations for Tree Service: Steep slopes make the job much harder as well as more dangerous. Limited access also makes it harder. Trees intertwined with other vegetation also create complex situations.
- You Value Your Safety (and Your Wallet) for Tree Service: Tree removal is dangerous work. Professionals are licensed as well as bonded as well as insured. This means if something goes wrong, their insurance covers it. This includes an accident, property damage, or a worker injury. Your homeowner's policy does not cover it. Do not hire someone who cannot show you proof of insurance for Tree Service.
After the Tree is Down from Tree Service in Kennewick
So, the tree is on the ground after your Tree Service. Now what?
- Debris Removal for Tree Service: Most professional services, including Tri Cities Tree Service, will chip smaller branches on-site. They will haul away larger wood sections. This leaves your property clean. Make sure this is part of your quote for Tree Service.
- Stump Removal for Tree Service: You will be left with a stump. You can leave it, but it can be an eyesore. It can also be a tripping hazard. It can also attract pests. Grinding it down below grade is usually the best option. This is true if you want to replant or put in new landscaping.
- Yard Cleanup After Tree Service: Even with professionals, there might be some sawdust or small debris. A good rake-up as well as some fresh topsoil can get your yard looking good again.
Tree removal is a big job. Some small tasks are manageable for a homeowner. For anything significant, it is always smarter to trust the experts. This is especially true with our strong Kennewick winds that can make even healthy trees a hazard. They have the gear as well as the know-how as well as the insurance to do your Tree Service safely and efficiently.