Protective Equipment

• Michigan laws regarding tree trimming and removal require individuals trimming or felling trees to wear proper eye and head protection, and use a safety belt or tree-trimming saddle belt when working in a tree. Such safety belts or saddles should be attached to the bucket of an aerial device, and the hardware should be fashioned of forged steel.
  
  

Operating Near Electrical Hazards

• Michigan law provides minimum working distances from certain voltages of live electrical conductors or utilities. Only approved insulated tools may be used to remove branches hanging on conductors, and in some circumstances live conductors must be deenergized by an authorized individual before trimming.
  
  

Limbing and Felling

• Limbs may be removed and trees felled only by using approved undercuts. Undercuts should be roughly 1/3 of the diameter of the tree, to safely guide the tree and reduce the likelihood of tree splitting. Vocal warnings are to be issued before felling or limbing, and whenever possible, cuts should be made on the downhill end of the tree: this guarantees a predictable line of fall.
  
  

Permits

• Permits must be issued to fell or cut trees on public land. These permits are typically issued by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or local administrating offices (State Game Areas, etc.). Such permits are usually only issued for use of the lumber as firewood.