Arborists rush to take down tree threatening Mill Valley homes

MILL VALLEY, Calif. (KGO) -- There were some tense moments in the North Bay Tuesday night after a large 130-foot tree almost came crashing down on several homes.

Fortunately, everyone was allowed back in their homes and the power was restored by 11 p.m.

Firefighters and professional arborists with Treemasters spent more than five hours properly securing the 130-foot pine tree. With the help of a large tow truck they pulled it over safely, away from three homes and the power lines that it threatened.

Crews tied the tree earlier after the homeowner attempted to cut it down himself.

As it shifted dangerously close to the power lines and three nearby homes, the man called for help.

Neighbors say the young family who bought the property was working to improve it. However, an effort to save some money, it cost them in the long run.

"It is expensive to have a professional come out, but it can be more expensive when it doesn't go well. A lot more expensive," Mill Valley Fire Batt. Chief Michael St. John said.

An arborist told ABC7 News the initial estimate to take the tree down was around $2,000. Since the arborist removed the tree in an emergency situation, it will cost around $8,000 for the homeowner.

Firefighters say there are many local ordinances regarding the size of trees homeowners are allowed to cut themselves. It is unclear at this point if the homeowner will be facing any fines.

The tree is laying down on the property and the homeowner will clear it and remove it himself.