How to Remove a Large Tree Near a House

Inquire at your local courthouse about the rules and regulations regarding tree removal in your area. Some counties require a permit or fee for removing trees.

Decide which direction the large tree will fall. Ensure the fall path is free of structures such as buildings, vehicles and telephone and electrical lines.

Designate your escape path, which should be free of obstructions and directly beyond you as you make the last cut into the tree trunk. The path will allow you to walk safely away from the falling tree.

Fill the chainsaw with fuel and check that the blade is sharp and undamaged. Don a pair of heavy work gloves and safety goggles.

Move to the side of the tree trunk facing the fall direction. Turn the chainsaw to the "On" position and make the undercut. The undercut is a 45-degree notch that is one-quarter the diameter of the tree trunk.

Walk carefully to the other side of the tree--opposite the undercut--and make the back cut, which is located 2 inches above the undercut. Do not let the back cut go all the way through the tree trunk to the undercut. This may cause the tree to fall in an unintended direction.

Turn the chainsaw to the "Off" position and safely but quickly move away from the falling tree, using your designated escape path. Once the tree is down, use the chainsaw to cut the felled tree into smaller pieces for easier cleanup.