What to do with a damaged tree: where to go and can you cut it down yourself?

The law distinguishes between dangerous and hazardous trees, depending on the potential risk to others. A hazardous tree is simply at risk of falling, while a hazardous tree is at risk of falling and causing harm to life or property. Once a potential source of problems is identified, the housing office is contacted, and its staff assesses the tree's condition. Based on the information gathered, a decision is made on how to prune the tree appropriately.

What does the law say?

A tree is considered unsafe if two indicators are present. The first is the tree's location near high-traffic areas, such as paths, parks, entryways, and so on. The second indicator is the presence of one of the following criteria:

• there are large dead branches in the crown;
• large deformed branches hang down;
• a large number of traces of rot;
• the presence of multiple hollows;
• abundant fungal infection of the trunk;
• the trunk is covered with deep cracks;
• Large, previously fallen branches are scattered near the base;
• the angle of inclination of the trunk exceeds 40-45º;
• damage to the root system is visible;
• the soil level near plants has been changed;
• change of standard color.

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Plants surrounded by dead trees are at risk. This likely indicates a high level of pest or disease activity in the area. Areas where trees have recently been cleared are also at risk. As wind loads increase, the remaining greenery loses its ability to withstand adverse environmental conditions.

Conducting regular inspections

Environmental legislation distinguishes between signs of damage and natural defects inherent to specific species. Owners of private land or housing offices regularly inspect trees. This procedure is repeated after heavy rain or strong winds. Attention is paid to the roots, branches, and trunk. As soon as changes are noted, a specialist is called in to document the condition of the tree. If the defects detected cannot be classified as natural, the decision is made to remove the tree.

• lost viability;
• lost their aesthetic properties;
• damaged as a result of external influence of weather or humans;
• drying out;
• affected by pests and pathogens.

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The prepared report specifies the category to which the green space belongs. For example, IV – declining, V – annual deadwood, VI – perennial deadwood, and so on. Representatives of the operating organization determine the scope of the necessary intervention.

Formative pruning, sanitary pruning, and thinning are used. Removal of the plant is the last resort. In their work, specialists rely on a list of criteria specific to each species. Only if legal regulations are followed is the felling considered properly performed. Any deviation from the regulations will result in a fine.

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Early detection and removal of hazardous trees reduces potential damage to human life and property. Green spaces located near public areas are subject to constant monitoring. Unauthorized felling is prohibited by law, so the work is entrusted to companies licensed for such activities. As soon as a potentially hazardous tree is identified, a specialist is called in to assess the situation.