What will I be doing?

A tree-trimming service does just what the name implies: trims trees. Tree trimmers are called to remove limbs or trees that are diseased or damaged. They also remove limbs close to power, cable and telephone lines. They are called to remove trees that have fallen on to a house or in to a road. Their service is important and their income is good.

What will I need to start?

To offer a tree-trimming service you obviously must know something about trees, how they grow and how to remove or stop growth. Community colleges and universities with agriculture departments can direct you to courses and books on these subjects.

To gain experience, practice on your own trees or, better, work part- or full-time for a tree-trimming or landscaping service. The experience you gain will later make you more money. If you have knowledge but need practice, offer to trim trees for friends, neighbors, churches and others who love your price: free.

Your equipment will include a chain saw, tree saws, cutters, trimmers and related equipment as well as ladders and maybe a climbing belt. Wear goggles, a safety hat and other safety gear so you can enjoy your business for many years.

Who will my customers be?

Customers for your tree-trimming service are easy to find. Simply drive neighborhoods and business districts looking for trees that need your services, then contact the owner. One trimmer took photos of problem trees and brought them to the owner with a suggestion on how to solve the problem. In many cases, the solution sounded like too much work to the owner and the trimmer was hired to do it.

Wind storms can play havoc on trees and limbs. Listen to regional news and, if a wind storm hits a neighboring area, get there fast. Offer your services to area tree trimmers, insurance agents, disaster relief offices or individual homeowners. Stop by City Hall first and make sure you have the proper licenses for the area.