Precision Felling of a Mature Yew Tree in Surbiton – Safe, Skilled & Controlled

Yew trees are iconic in British gardens—long-lived, evergreen, and beautifully textured. But when a mature Yew begins to outgrow its space or interfere with nearby structures, it requires specialist handling. Their dense timber, heavy branches, and broad crowns demand precise felling techniques to keep the surrounding area safe.

Our ArborLife Tree Surgeons team were recently called to a property in Surbiton, where a large Yew had begun to overshadow the garden and lean slightly towards a neighbouring boundary. Because of limited space and nearby fencing, the tree needed to be felled in sections, ensuring complete safety throughout the process.

Why This Yew Tree Needed to Be Removed

Although healthy, the tree posed several issues:

• The canopy blocked significant light into the garden
• The tree was situated close to a fence and patio
• Its dense branches and weight made it unsuitable for a straight fell
• The homeowner planned to re-landscape the area, so stump removal was essential

While Yew trees are often preserved due to their age and ecological value, in this case, controlled removal was the right option for both safety and future garden use.

Our Safe & Professional Yew Felling Process in Surbiton

1. Full Site Assessment & Safety Setup

We began by identifying:

• Neighbouring property risks
• Access routes
• Drop zones and rigging points
• Ground stability
• The safest dismantling sequence

Yews have dense, heavy timber, so careful planning was key.

2. Sectional Crown Removal

Our climber ascended the tree using professional rope and harness systems.

Branches were removed in small sections, lowered safely with rigging to avoid damage to:

• The garden
• Fencing
• Nearby structures

Yew branches are heavier than most conifers, so controlled lowering was essential.

3. Dismantling the Main Stem

Once the crown was down, the trunk was removed in rings, each carefully lowered to the ground.
Directional cuts ensured stable progress and complete control.

4. Stump Grinding

To prevent regrowth and prepare the garden for re-landscaping, the Yew stump was ground below the soil surface.
All waste was removed or recycled responsibly.

Results for the Homeowner

Removing the Yew transformed the garden:

• Far more natural light reached patios and living spaces
• The area felt open and noticeably larger
• The homeowner gained full freedom to redesign the garden layout
• The risk of branch drop or root encroachment was fully resolved

The client was delighted with how clean, safe, and efficient the process was.

1. Do Yew trees require special handling when felled?

Yes. Yew wood is extremely dense and heavy, meaning branches require controlled lowering rather than free-falling. Specialist climbing and rigging are recommended.

2. Are Yew trees protected by law?

Not as a species. However, if the Yew is covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located in a conservation area, permission must be obtained before work begins.

3. Can Yew trees regrow after felling?

If the stump is not removed, Yews can sprout new growth. Stump grinding prevents regrowth completely.

4. Is Yew wood toxic?

Yes. Most parts of the Yew tree are toxic if ingested. ArborLife handles all waste responsibly and safely.

5. How much does Yew removal cost in Surrey?

Costs vary by height, width, access, and dismantling method.
Most mature Yew removals in Surbiton range from £500–£1,200.