When Is Tree Removal Necessary? Signs Long Lake Homeowners Shouldn’t Ignore

Written By Chris Spacek

SEO Title: When Is Tree Removal Necessary in Long Lake, MN? Warning Signs Homeowners Should Know
URL Slug: tree-removal-necessary-long-lake-mn
Meta Description: Learn the most common signs that tree removal may be necessary for your Long Lake, MN property. Expert guidance from CJS Services, serving the west metro.

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to properties throughout Long Lake and the surrounding west metro, but not every tree can — or should — be saved. In some cases, tree removal is the safest and most responsible option for homeowners.

At CJS Services, we’re often called out to evaluate trees after storms, during construction projects, or when homeowners notice something just doesn’t look right. This guide explains when tree removal is necessary, what warning signs to watch for, and how professional removal protects your property.

1. The Tree Is Dead or Dying

A dead or severely declining tree is one of the most common reasons for removal.

Signs a tree may be dead or dying include:

  • No leaf growth during the growing season

  • Large sections of missing bark

  • Brittle branches that snap easily

  • Fungal growth or mushrooms at the base

  • Hollow or decaying trunk areas

Dead trees become unpredictable and dangerous, especially during Minnesota wind, snow, and ice events. If a dead tree is near your home, driveway, or neighboring property, removal is typically the safest option.

2. The Tree Poses a Safety Risk to Structures

Trees don’t need to be dead to be dangerous.

In Long Lake, Orono, and Wayzata, we frequently see mature trees growing very close to:

  • Homes and garages

  • Lakeshore properties

  • Power lines

  • Driveways and sidewalks

Warning signs include:

  • Heavy limbs hanging over structures

  • Trees leaning toward buildings

  • Root systems lifting concrete or retaining walls

When a tree’s location creates a high-risk situation, professional tree removal can prevent costly damage and personal injury.

3. Severe Storm Damage Has Compromised the Tree

Strong storms, high winds, and heavy snow are common in the west metro. Even healthy trees can suffer damage that makes them unsafe.

Storm-related issues that may require removal:

  • Split trunks

  • Major limb failure

  • Uprooted or partially uprooted trees

  • Trees struck by lightning

In many cases, storm-damaged trees cannot be structurally restored. A professional assessment helps determine whether tree removal or targeted pruning is the right solution.

4. The Tree Is Diseased or Infested

Certain diseases and insect infestations can weaken trees beyond recovery and spread to nearby healthy trees.

Common concerns in Minnesota include:

  • Emerald ash borer

  • Oak wilt

  • Advanced fungal decay

If a tree is heavily diseased, removal may be recommended to:

  • Protect surrounding trees

  • Reduce long-term property risk

  • Eliminate future emergency situations

Early evaluation is key — waiting too long often limits options.

5. Root Damage or Soil Issues Are Causing Instability

Healthy roots are critical to a tree’s stability.

Signs of root problems include:

  • Soil heaving or cracking near the base

  • Exposed or severed roots

  • Leaning after rain or snowmelt

  • Construction damage near the tree

Trees with compromised root systems can fail without warning. In these situations, tree removal is often the safest course of action.

6. The Tree Interferes With Property Use or Construction

Sometimes tree removal is necessary for practical reasons, such as:

  • Home additions or renovations

  • Driveway or utility installation

  • Clearing invasive species like buckthorn

When removal is planned (not emergency-based), it can be done carefully to minimize impact on the rest of your landscape.

Tree Removal vs. Tree Pruning

Many homeowners ask whether pruning can solve the problem instead of removal.

Tree pruning is often effective when:

  • The tree is healthy

  • Issues are limited to specific branches

  • Structural integrity is intact

Tree removal is usually recommended when:

  • The tree is dead or structurally compromised

  • Risk to people or property is high

  • Disease or damage cannot be corrected

A professional evaluation ensures the right decision is made.

Professional Tree Removal in Long Lake & the West Metro

Tree removal is complex and potentially dangerous work that should always be handled by trained professionals with proper equipment.

At CJS Services, we specialize in:

  • Safe tree removal in tight spaces

  • Large and hazardous tree removals

  • Coordinated tree removal and stump grinding

  • Serving Long Lake, Orono, Medina, Wayzata, Mound, Excelsior, and Maple Plain

We focus on safety, clear communication, and protecting your property throughout the entire process.

Request a Free Tree Removal Estimate

If you’re concerned about a tree on your property or unsure whether removal is necessary, we’re here to help.

👉 Request a free estimate from CJS Services to have your trees professionally evaluated by a local west metro tree service you can trust.

Internal linking suggestions:

  • Link to Tree Removal service page

  • Link to Tree Pruning service page

  • Link to Stump Grinding service page

Chris Spacek
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Expert Tree Services in Long Lake, MN by CJS Services