Can I Do Sectional Felling Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?

The Dangers are Real!

Every year in Scotland, at least a dozen serious accidents happen because someone thought, “How hard can it be to cut down a tree?” Spoiler: Very hard. And often, Sectional Felling, is dangerous.

From chainsaw gashes, crushed cars, even flattened garden sheds trees in confined space pose not only a risk to buildings and cars nearby, but also a risk to life too. A retired gardener in Wales lost his life when he tried to cut some branches from his tree.

So, before you grab your chainsaw and start hacking away, let’s break it down: When can you DIY, and when should you call a pro?

Can I Do Sectional Felling Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional? Tree Surgeon standing back from Cherry Picker while sectional tree fell is ongoing.

The Ugly Truth About DIY Sectional Felling

1. It’s More Dangerous Than You Think

Climbing a tree with a chainsaw isn’t like trimming a hedge. One wrong move, and you’re in trouble.

  • Falling from height is the biggest killer in tree work. No harness? Bad idea.

  • Chainsaws don’t forgive mistakes. A split-second lapse in concentration can mean deep cuts or worse.

  • Branches don’t always fall where you want. I’ve seen them bounce off walls, swing back like a wrecking ball, and even snap power lines.

There are so many clips on social media sites of just such dangerous incidents, where someone is cutting a tree and is flung off or the tree hits a house. Sectional Tree Felling in Confined Spaces is complex and dangerous.

2. The Legal Nightmares

Even if you don’t hurt yourself, you could still end up in hot water.

  • Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are everywhere in Scotland. Cut down the wrong tree, and you could be fined up to £20,000. Read How to check Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas here.

  • Disturb nesting birds? That’s another offence. The law doesn’t care if you “didn’t know.”

  • Your home insurance probably won’t cover DIY disasters. If a branch flattens your neighbour’s car, you’re paying.

Why find out the hard, expensive, way. A local expert tree surgeon will know what is allowed and what to do to protect your home and safety. Rather ask before you start. Most professional tree surgeons will be more than happy to visit and provide advice.

3. Hidden Problems You Won’t Spot

You might look at a tree and think, “Seems solid.” But trees hide rot, cracks, and weak points.

  • A tree that looks healthy can have hollow trunks or unstable roots. Start cutting, and it could split unpredictably.

  • Rigging (lowering branches with ropes) is a science. Get it wrong, and you’ll either drop a branch on your shed or send it flying into the street.

It is not uncommon for a tree to be standing while the inside is rotten and the loss of a branch causes the tree to become unbalanced and it collapses.

When Might DIY Be an Option?

Okay, so I’ve made it sound terrifying. But there may be cases where you can tackle it yourself—if you’re careful about it.

✅ Only If:

  • The tree is small (under 3m) with no obstacles around.

  • You’ve got proper safety gear (helmet, chainsaw trousers, gloves, boots).

  • You’ve had some chainsaw training and know how to make basic cuts (no climbing or rigging needed).

  • There are no power lines, buildings, or protected species nearby.

❌ Never Try DIY If:

  • The tree is near your house, fences, or cars.

  • It’s large, rotten, or leaning dangerously.

  • You need to climb or use ropes.

  • You’ve never used a chainsaw before.

Even then, ask yourself: Is saving £500 worth a hospital trip or a lawsuit? Search for a Tree Surgeon Near Me

Why Hiring a Pro Is Worth Every Penny

Good tree surgeons don’t just cut—they plan, assess risks, and work safely. Here’s what you’re paying for:

1. They Stop Disasters Before They Happen

Pros check for rot, weak wood, and hidden hazards. They use ropes, cranes, and rigging techniques to lower branches safely. No guesswork.

2. It’s Often Cheaper Than You Think

  • Small tree removal? Around £200–£500.

  • Big job with rigging? Maybe £800–£2,500.

Compare that to:

  • A £20,000 fine for illegal felling.

  • A £5,000 insurance claim for a smashed car.

  • Priceless hospital bills or worse.

3. They Handle the Mess (and the Stress)

Most tree surgeons chip the wood, take it away, and leave your garden tidy. No back-breaking cleanup for you.

Final Verdict: Be Honest With Yourself

If you’re experienced, equipped, and dealing with a tiny, low-risk tree, maybe you can DIY.

But in 99% of cases? Hire a professional. The risks aren’t worth it.

As someone once put it: “If you’re asking whether it’s safe… it’s probably not.”

Need a trusted tree surgeon? Check LANTRA-certified arborists or ask for local recommendations. Your fingers—and your wallet—will thank you.

Got a tree felling story? Share it in the comments—let’s learn from each other’s mistakes!