How to Remove a Tree That Is Growing in a Chain Link Fence

A tree that begins to wrap around and through a chain link fence can cause major damage to the fence. The continually growing branches may stretch the chain link or rip them open. This type of damage will compromise the structure of the fence. Removing the tree may be the only alternative a fence owner has to save the fence. If possible, ask a friend to help you remove the tree. Removing a large tree is dangerous, so always use the proper safety equipment and tools.

• 1

  Cut the branches tangled in the fence with a pair of tree pruning shears. Cut the branches somewhere between the tree's trunk and the fence. This will depend upon the length of the tree's branches.

• 2

  Dress in all appropriate safety gear before turning on the chainsaw. Ask anyone helping you to do the same.

• 3

  Inspect around and above the tree. Make sure there are no power lines over the tree, or any structures near the tree. Only a professional should remove a tree in this situation.

• 4

  Determine a safe falling area for the tree. Look at the lean of the tree, as most trees are not perfectly straight. The tree will most likely fall in the direction of the lean.

• 5

  Clear away all debris and brush from under the tree. Plan two separate escape routes for you to use after you make the cuts. You do not want anything in the way of your escape routes.

• 6

  Make an undercut near the bottom of the trunk using a chain saw. The undercut needs to be on the side of the tree where you wish it to fall. Make a straight cut --- parallel with the ground --- approximately one-quarter of the way through the tree. Now make a diagonal cut that runs from above the straight cut down into the straight cut. This should make a 45-degree angle notch in the tree.

• 7

  Back-cut a notch on the other side of the tree. Cut the back cut 1 to 2 inches above the undercut. Do not cut through to the undercut; rather leave just a small amount (the amount will depend on the circumference of the trunk) of tree trunk as a hinge.

• 8

  Turn off your chainsaw and walk away from the tree as it begins to fall. Use your escape routes, and get as far away as possible. Even with great precautions, a tree may fall in an unwanted direction .

• 9

  Dispose of the tree by cutting into small pieces. Many times people in search of firewood will cut up and haul away a freshly cut tree for you.

• 10

  Remove the tree limbs in the chain link fence by cutting the limbs into small pieces with a pair of tree cutting shears. Once they are cut, you can pull the small pieces from the fence.

• 11

  Remove the tree stump by using a stump grinder, digging it up or with chemicals. If you leave the stump there it may regrow branches that can damage the fence again.