How to Safely Remove a Git Branch Locally and Remotely

If you’ve created a Git branch and no longer need it, you can remove it both locally and remotely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely delete a branch in Git.

Step 1: Switch to Another Branch

Before deleting the branch, ensure you are on a different branch (e.g., `development`) because you cannot delete the branch you are currently on. Run:

git checkout development

Step 2: Delete the Branch Locally

To delete the branch from your local system, use:

git branch -d production

Note: If the branch isn’t fully merged and Git warns you, use -D (capital D) to force delete:

git branch -D production

Step 3: Delete the Branch Remotely

To remove the branch from the remote repository, run:

git push origin --delete production

Step 4: Verify the Deletion

Locally:

Check your local branches to ensure the branch is gone:

git branch

Remotely:

Fetch the remote branches and verify the deletion:

git fetch --prune
git branch -r

You should no longer see origin/production.


By following these steps, you can safely remove a Git branch locally and remotely. If you face any issues during this process, feel free to leave a comment below!