How to remove a small fallen tree
Report before you fix
Have you already tried to report the problem?
If not, click here to learn how to report it.
Already reported and still no luck?
Click here to escalate the issue to your ward councillor.
Communities acting together can make things happen. Click here to discover how.
Still no success? The info below will help you fix it yourself.
DISCLAIMER: Check with your local authority on legal ways to fix problems yourself. Fixlocal cannot take responsibility for any problems that may arise in fixing it yourself.
When not to try to do it yourself
There are times when you should never try to remove a fallen tree yourself:
- If the tree is touching or near power lines, don't try to remove it. Contact Eskom or your local power provider right away.
- If the tree is too big, if it is leaning on a house, fence, car, or any other structure, leave it to professionals. The risk of more damage or injury is too high.
- If you are not confident using tools like chainsaws or handling large, heavy objects, it’s best to hire a professional.
- For professional help, contact a good tree removal service in your area. Many South African towns also offer private emergency services for fallen trees. Call local emergency services at 10111 (South African emergency number).
Getting tools and safety gear
If you decide to go ahead, make sure you have the right tools and safety gear.
- Safety gear: You need gloves, safety goggles, a hard hat, and strong boots. If using a chainsaw, also wear ear protection and chainsaw chaps (clothing to protect your legs).
- Tools: You might need a chainsaw, handsaw, axe, ropes, and maybe a ladder, depending on the situation.
- You can get this gear from a hardware shop. There are also places where you can hire the gear. Search for these places online.
Clearing the area
Before you start, make sure the area around the fallen tree is clear of people, pets, and other things that could be harmed.
- Block off the area: Use cones, tape, or other markers to keep people away from the work zone.
- Tell your neighbours: If the tree has fallen near a shared or public space, let your neighbours or nearby people know what your plans are.
Planning your cuts
If using a chainsaw or handsaw, plan your cuts carefully to stop the tree or branches from moving in a way that could cause injury or damage.
- Start with smaller branches: Cut off smaller branches and debris first to make the larger parts easier to handle.
- Cut the trunk into sections: For a large trunk, cut the trunk into smaller sections, starting from the top and working down.
Removing the tree
Once the smaller parts are cleared, you can remove the main trunk.
- Use ropes for stability: If the tree is unstable, tie it with ropes before cutting.
- Cut into manageable pieces: Keep cutting the trunk into pieces that are easy to move.
Cleaning up
After cutting the tree, you need to clean up the leftover branches and leaves.
- Check local rules: Some towns have special rules for getting rid of a lot of garden waste. You might need to call your local town office to find out where to take the leftover branches and leaves or if the town office can collect the branches and leaves for you.
- Think about recycling: If possible, recycle the wood by turning it into firewood, furniture, or mulch. (Mulch is a thick layer of wood shavings that are put on the soil and around plants to stop weeds and keep water in the soil, while also protecting the plants from drying winds and direct sun.)
Get your community involved
Is there a community-driven group or caring business in your area? A dedicated group of committed people can effectively solve local problems.
Think about starting or joining community groups like a street WhatsApp group, residents' association, or community policing forum (CPF) to get help and to stay informed and involved in local issues.
Know your rights – how local government works
It’s important to understand how your local government works so that you can work with them to support what they are doing while your community continues to keep them accountable and deliver services on time. Remember you have a constitutional right to many of the services provided by local government, as well as to accountability and transparency, wherever you live and regardless of how much you earn. It is also where money collected from taxes and rates goes.
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