Cutting CA Pepper Tree Roots

[ernestsavage]

I’d like to cut this root ball, but I’m afraid I’ll kill the tree. The ball has at least three roots coming out of it, that are about 6 inches in diameter. I cut one of the 6 inch roots. You can see my fist next to it the photo. Can I cut the ball? It’s right up against the trunk. It’s a large older tree. At least 50 years old. Very healthy.