Cutting down a tree in a residential area often means there are lots of neighboring structures and landscaping plants at risk of damage. Fortunately, your tree service will take steps to prevent any collateral damage.

1. Fall Zone Mapping

The most important safety tasks occur before the first cuts are made. Your tree service will survey the property and the trees to be removed so they can create a fall zone map. This map is designed to show every way a tree can fall during the process so anything in a possible fall path can be protected. This map is used to inform the tree service on what steps to take to prevent the tree from falling in a way that causes damage or injury.

2. Temporary Closures

Depending on the location of the tree, your tree service may decide that it's necessary to close off some areas. Sidewalks and roads that encroach on the fall zone are typically barricaded off until the process is complete. Your tree service will contact the local authorities to arrange any permits necessary to allow for the road closure during the removal process.

3. Utility Line Safety

Depending on the location of the tree and whether you are removing the stump, utility line management may be necessary. In the event of overhead lines, the tree service may need to contact the utility company to arrange for a temporary shut-off of the power in the lines. Underground lines may also be an issue, particularly if you are grinding or pulling out the stump. In this case, the tree service will contact the utility company to have the location of the underground utility and water lines marked.

4. Debris Covers

Falling branches and debris during the removal process can damage surrounding flower beds or hedges. Fortunately, your tree service can take steps to protect them. Covering plants with sturdy tarps pulled tautly will protect landscaping from fallen small debris. They may also erect temporary barriers around nearby shrubs and trees to protect them from getting bumped by any heavy equipment that is in use. 

5. Sectioning Techniques

A major way to reduce the chances of property damage is to section the tree rather than chop it down at its base. Sectioning means cutting off all the branches so only the trunk remains. Then, the trunk is cut down into short sections, working downward from the top. Large branches and trunk sections are lowered to the ground with pulleys, so there is a reduced risk of any debris falling and causing damage.

Contact a tree removal service like Smitty's Tree Service Inc for more info.