Hazard Tree Removal in Downeast Maine
When a tree starts to lean, drop big branches, or show signs of decay, it can go from “nice to have” to “serious worry” very quickly.
Born Free Tree Care, LLC provides safe, controlled hazard tree removal across Downeast Maine—including Ellsworth, Bar Harbor, MDI, Blue Hill, Machias, and surrounding towns.
As a veteran owned business, ISA Certified Arborist, and licensed Maine utility arborist, we focus on removing dangerous trees in a way that protects your home, camp, driveway, and power lines.
If you’re worried about a tree, the best first step is a free quote and a professional look.
What is a "Hazard Tree?"
A hazard tree is any tree that has a defect and a target—meaning it could hit something important if it fails:
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Your house or camp
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A driveway or camp road
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A vehicle, garage, shed, or deck
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Power lines or service drops
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Areas where people walk, park, or spend time
What are Common Hazard Signs?
Common hazard signs we see in Hancock and Washington County include:
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Significant lean, especially if it’s new
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Large dead branches over roofs or driveways
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Cracks in the trunk or major limbs
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Mushrooms or rot at the base of the tree
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Trees damaged by storms, plows, excavation, or erosion
If you’re seeing any of these, it’s a good time to have the tree checked.
Our Approach to Hazard Tree Removal
Not all tree removals are the same. Hazard trees often require extra planning, especially when they’re close to structures or power lines.
Here’s how we handle hazard tree removal safely:
Safe Climbing & Rigging
We don’t just “drop” the tree and hope for the best. We:
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Climb trees using ropes and harnesses
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Use rigging systems to lower branches and trunk sections in a controlled way
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Cut trees down in pieces when space is tight, rather than felling them in one shot
This helps protect roofs, decks, fences, camp roads, and the rest of your property.
Careful Property Protection
Before any cutting starts, we look at:
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Access for equipment (if needed)
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Lawns, gardens, and septic areas
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Driveways and camp roads
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Nearby trees you want to keep
We plan how to get the tree out with the least amount of impact possible, and we’ll talk through that plan with you beforehand.
Cleanup Options that Fit Your Needs
We offer flexible options so your property ends up the way you want it:
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Brush chipped and removed
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Logs hauled away
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OR logs cut to firewood length for you to keep
We’ll spell out exactly what’s included in your quote so there are no surprises.
When You Should Call About a Hazard Tree
You don’t have to wait until a tree is on the ground to get help. It’s a good idea to reach out if:
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A tree is leaning more than it used to
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You see large dead branches over your house, camp, or driveway
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There are cracks, cavities, or mushrooms on the trunk or at the base
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A tree was damaged in a recent storm
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You’re planning a new driveway, addition, or structure and want trees evaluated first
If you’re unsure, we can start with a tree assessment and then decide together whether removal is the right call.
Hazard Trees Near Power Lines
Trees and power lines are a dangerous combination, especially when the tree is already compromised.
As a licensed Maine utility arborist, we can:
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Evaluate hazard trees near your service line
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Coordinate when the electric utility needs to be involved
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Remove or prune trees in a way that respects safety clearances and regulations
Please don’t try to cut branches near power lines yourself. It’s not worth the risk—let us take a look and guide you through your options.
Service Area for Hazard Tree Removal
Born Free Tree Care, LLC provides hazard tree removal throughout Downeast Maine, including:
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Hancock County: Amherst, Aurora, Bar Harnor, Blue Hill, Brooklin, Brooksville, Bucksport, Castine, Dedham, Deer Isle, Eastbrook, Franklin, Grouldsboro, Hancock, Lamoine, Mariaville, Mount Desert, Orland, Osborn, Otis, Penobscot, Sedgwick, Sorrento, Southwest Harbor, Stonington, Sullivan, Surry, Tremont, Trenton, Verona Island, Waltham, Winter Harbor, and surrounding areas/towns.
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Washington County: Addison, Alexander, Baileybille, Beals, Beddington, Columbia, Columbia Falls, Cooper, Deblois, Dennysville, East Machias, Harrington, Machias, Machiasport, Milbridge, Steuben, and surrounding towns.
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Properties along the corridor from Bangor to Machias
If you’re close to these areas and not sure you’re in range, you’re always welcome to ask.
