If you are looking at chainsaw courses in the UK, you will see CS30 and CS31 come up again and again. That is because, for most people doing ground-based chainsaw work, they are the foundation.
A lot of training centres also offer them together as a combined option, often described as a Ground Based Chainsaw Operator course. If you are trying to work out whether to do them separately or as a package, this guide will help you decide, without the fluff.
Quick answer: yes, if you need to cut and fell as part of your job
The combined CS30 + CS31 route is usually right if you:
- use a chainsaw for work, not just the odd job at home
- need to cross-cut timber on the ground
- need to fell and process small trees as part of your role
- want a clear, “do it properly” route that employers recognise
If you only ever cut timber that is already down, and you will not be felling trees, you may only need CS30.
What is a “Ground Based Chainsaw Operator” course?
It is not a separate ticket. It is a practical way of describing the two key units most people need to work with a chainsaw on the ground:
- CS30: Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting
- CS31: Felling and Processing Small Trees
Together, they cover the skills that show up in day-to-day ground-based work, from safe maintenance and sharpening to cutting correctly, and felling small trees in a controlled way.
What you will learn on CS30 (maintenance and cross-cutting)
CS30 is about using the saw correctly and safely, with good habits from day one. It usually includes:
- daily checks and safe setup
- chain sharpening and basic maintenance
- fuel and oil handling
- starting positions and safe handling
- cross-cutting techniques on timber on the ground
- understanding tension and compression so cuts do not pinch
- dealing with common issues that cause accidents and damaged kit
If you are new to chainsaw work, CS30 is where you build confidence without rushing into felling.
What you will learn on CS31 (felling small trees)
CS31 builds on CS30 and focuses on felling and processing small trees safely. Typical coverage includes:
- site checks and planning the felling direction
- safe use of wedges and breaking down the job step-by-step
- felling cuts and hinge control
- snedding and processing once the tree is down
- dealing with awkward shapes and basic problem-solving on the ground
- safe working and positioning throughout the job
If your work includes any felling, this is usually the bit employers want to see.
Who the combined CS30 + CS31 course suits best
New starters in arboriculture and tree surgery
If you are starting out, this is a common first step. It sets you up for ground work and gives you the right base before you move into climbing and aerial rescue.
Grounds maintenance and estates teams
Many teams need chainsaw skills for clearance, storm damage, small tree removal, and general site work. Doing both units gives a wider range of what you can legally and safely do.
Landscaping and construction teams doing site clearance
If you are taking on more clearance, you often need both the cutting and felling side. This is also where training pays off quickly, because you reduce rework, damaged saws, and near-misses.
Self-employed contractors who want to take on more work
If you are building your own customer base, having the right tickets helps with credibility and opens more doors, especially for commercial contracts and subcontract work.
When it is better to do CS30 first, then CS31 later
The combined route is popular, but splitting can make sense if:
- you genuinely only need cross-cutting right now
- you want to spread cost over time
- you are not sure whether your next job will involve felling
- you want extra practice time between units
If you are already working around trees and you know felling will be part of the job, doing them together is usually the cleanest route.
How long does it take?
Course lengths vary by training centre and experience level, but as a rough guide:
- CS30 is usually a multi-day course
- CS31 adds further training days on top
The key point is that these are practical qualifications. Rushing does not help. You want time on the saw, with an instructor watching your technique and correcting it before assessment.
What can you do after CS30 + CS31?
Once you have CS30 and CS31, you are typically set for:
- ground-based cutting and processing work
- felling and processing small trees
- a wider range of arb ground crew tasks
- improved safety and confidence on real jobs
If you want to progress into climbing and aerial work, the usual next steps are:
- Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue
- CS39 (Chainsaw from Rope and Harness)
Common mistakes people make when choosing this course
Booking CS31 when they only need cross-cutting
If you will never fell as part of your role, CS30 may be enough. It is worth being honest about what you actually do.
Thinking “a chainsaw licence is a chainsaw licence”
Different tasks require different units. If your work changes, your training should match it.
Underestimating how much maintenance matters
A lot of site problems start with blunt chains, bad sharpening, and poor checks. CS30 is not just a box-tick. It saves time, kit, and hassle.
FAQ: Ground Based Chainsaw Operator (CS30 + CS31)
Do I need CS30 before CS31?
In most cases, yes. CS30 is the foundation that CS31 builds on.
Can I do them together?
Yes. Many people choose the combined option because it is straightforward and fits the way they work.
Is this suitable if I am working on construction sites?
Often yes, but you should also check the site rules and what evidence they require. Most commercial sites want recognised training and clear proof of competence.
What if I have experience but no tickets?
Experience helps, but many employers still need the recognised units for compliance. The best route depends on what you do now and what you are aiming for next.
Want to check if this is the right course for you?
If you tell us your job role and what you are cutting, we will point you to the right course route. Call 01772 369694 or email info@chainsawcourses.co.uk and we’ll help you choose the right option before you book.