For homeowners
Can I prune my own trees or should I hire a pro?
Short answer
You can prune small branches that you can reach from the ground with hand tools. Hire an insured pro for anything high, large, or near power lines. Climbing, and chainsaw work from a ladder or in a tree, are dangerous and can cause serious injury.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
Light pruning is fine for many homeowners. Think of loppers or a hand saw, on branches you can reach with both feet on the ground. Wear eye protection and gloves.
Leave it to a pro if the branch is thick, higher than you can reach from the ground, or over your house. Also leave it to a pro if the tree looks sick or has dead wood overhead, or if there are wires anywhere near. A trained crew has the gear, rigging and insurance to work safely. Never go up a ladder with a chainsaw, and never climb the tree yourself.
If wires are close, do not touch the tree or anything touching it. Call the utility. For an immediate danger, call 911.
Before work starts, ask the company for a certificate of insurance and get the job in writing. This is general information, not legal advice.
More answers for homeowners
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- Can I put storm debris in my regular trash or burn it?Read the answer
- Can I remove a tree near my pool?Read the answer
- Can I remove a tree that fell on my property?Read the answer
- Can I remove a tree that is blocking my view?Read the answer
- Can I remove a tree, roots and all, near my house?Read the answer
Hiring a tree service?
Plain guides for homeowners
Safety first: stay away from downed power lines and call the utility; call 911 if anyone is in danger. Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
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