Course Description
Felling Small Trees (CS31) is the next essential qualification for anyone progressing from chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting into tree felling operations. This practical course teaches learners how to safely fell, process, and deal with small trees up to 380mm in diameter while working to UK legislation and industry best practice. Ideal for arborists, forestry workers, estates teams, and land-based contractors, CS31 builds the skills required to assess trees, plan safe felling operations, and manage timber on the ground. Delivered through hands-on instruction in a realistic working environment, this course develops confidence, competency and safety when carrying out small tree felling tasks.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm (0039-21)
Course Cost
£574 including City and Guilds NPTC registration and assessment fees.
Course Duration
3 days training followed by 1 day independent NPTC assessment.
Entry Requirements
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Be 16 years old or above
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Hold Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (CS30)
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Be physically fit to carry out ground-based chainsaw work
What This Qualification Allows You To Do
After completing the course and assessment, successful candidates are qualified to:
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Fell small trees up to 380mm in diameter
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Sned, cross-cut, and process felled timber
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Work independently on small tree felling operations
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Progress to medium tree felling or aerial chainsaw units
Who's This Course For?
Assessment & Certification
This course is ideal for:
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Arborists and trainee tree surgeons
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Forestry and woodland workers
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Grounds maintenance and estates staff
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Agricultural and rural contractors
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Anyone requiring felling certification for insurance or compliance
Assessment is completed by an independent City & Guilds NPTC assessor. Candidates must demonstrate:
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Planning and preparing a safe felling site
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Correct execution of felling cuts
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Safe use of wedges and tools
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Processing timber to industry standards
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Demonstrating hazard awareness and control
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Successful learners receive a City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Felling Small Trees up to 380 mm.
This qualification is recognised by the Forestry and Arboricultural industry in the UK and other countries around the world. Also, widely recognised by UK employers, insurance providers and local authorities.
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What Will You Learn?
Planning & Risk Assessment for Tree Felling
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Assessing tree condition, lean, and surrounding hazards
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Identifying escape routes and exclusion zones
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Understanding site-specific risks and controls
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Safe communication and work positioning
Processing Felled Trees
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Snedding techniques using safe cutting methods
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Cross-cutting stems and timber sections
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Managing tension and compression safely
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Efficient timber handling and stacking
Felling Techniques for Small Trees (Unit 203)
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A range of felling techniques
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Felling of backward and forward leaning trees
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Managing hung-up trees
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Using aid tools to help with felling
PPE & Equipment Required
FAQs
All equipment must be in good/safe working order, and meet minimum standards in accordance with PUWER regulations.
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Chainsaw protective trousers (Class 1 minimum), Type A or C
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Chainsaw protective boots
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Safety helmet with visor and ear protection
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Chainsaw protective gloves
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Personal first aid kit
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Recommended 50cc petrol chainsaw with 15” guide bar
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Felling lever and wedge
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Tool and sharpening kit suitable for chainsaw
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Weather appropriate clothing
Do I need CS30 before CS31?
Yes — CS30 (Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting) is a mandatory prerequisite.
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What size trees does this course cover?
Trees up to 380mm diameter at the felling height.
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Does the CS31 qualification expire?
NPTC certificates do not expire, but refresher training every 3–5 years is recommended.
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Is this suitable for beginners?
This course is suitable for learners who already hold CS30 but are new to tree felling.