Dead and leaning tree removal
A tree doesn't have to fall to be dangerous. Here's how to spot a risky tree and what taking one down involves.
A hazardous tree is one that's likely to fail and has something to land on: a roof, a car, a fence, a swing set or the street. These jobs take more planning than an ordinary removal, because a dead or rotting tree can't be trusted to hold a climber or ropes the way a sound one can.
Signs a tree may be a hazard
- Mushrooms, conks or soft wood at the base or along the roots
- Dead branches in the top of the crown, or leaves coming out thin and late
- A lean that's new or getting worse, with soil heaving on the far side
- A crack where two main trunks meet
- Pine needles fading to yellow, then red or brown, with fine sawdust on the bark
- Roots cut by a driveway, sewer line or addition within the drip line
Beetle-killed pines
The Georgia Forestry Commission lists the signs of Ips engraver beetles: faded or dead branches, crowns that turn yellow and then red or brown, tiny round exit holes and fine sawdust on the bark. Storm-damaged pines are especially likely to be hit. GFC notes that insecticide can protect a high-value pine before an attack, but it can't save a tree that already shows symptoms.
Dead ash
Emerald ash borer was confirmed in Bibb County during the 2023 trapping season, according to the Georgia Forestry Commission. An ash with a thinning crown, sprouts on the trunk or heavy woodpecker damage should be checked soon, since a dead ash gets brittle as it dries.
Leaning trees
UGA Extension says a leaning tree has probably suffered some root injury, and recommends removing leaning pines and leaning hardwoods with broken roots. Only small, recently planted trees are usually worth straightening and bracing.
How are these trees taken down?
Crews often skip climbing a badly decayed tree and work from a bucket truck, or bring in a crane. They may widen the work zone and take the tree in smaller pieces. Taking down a hazard tree on a calm day is safer, and usually cheaper, than cleaning it off the roof after the next storm.
Price is set by the tree company after it sees the tree, what's underneath it and how a truck, lift or grinder can reach it. We don't quote prices, and any figure given over the phone without a site visit is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can a pine with beetles be saved?
Usually not once it shows symptoms. The Georgia Forestry Commission says insecticides can protect high-value pines beforehand but can't save a tree that's already infested.
Who can tell me whether a tree is dangerous?
An ISA Certified Arborist can assess it. Many tree services have one on staff, or you can hire one separately for a second opinion.
Related services
More background: Macon tree removal guide.
Water oak over the bedroom, a pine snapped in the last storm, or a stump in the middle of the yard?
Call and get connected with a Middle Georgia tree service that can come look at it.