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Managing Git WorktreesUnlock a Worktree

Unlock a Git Worktree

Unlocking a worktree lifts administrative protection, restoring maintenance actions including renaming, relocating, deleting, and pruning.

When to Unlock a Worktree

Unlock a worktree when its protection period has concluded:

  • A long-running build, benchmark, or continuous integration run has finished.
  • A release candidate branch has been merged into main or signed off by QA.
  • You are ready to clean up disk space by deleting or pruning the worktree.
  • You need to rename the worktree or relocate its directory path.

How to Unlock a Worktree

  1. In the Worktrees panel, locate the locked worktree (indicated by a Lock icon 🔒).
  2. Select the three-dot Actions menu beside the worktree.
  3. Select Unlock.

Unlock action for a locked worktree

WorktreeWise communicates with Git to remove the lock metadata. A confirmation notification confirms the lock removal.

Worktree after unlocking

What Happens After Unlocking

  • Lock Metadata Cleared: The recorded lock reason and Git lockfile (.git/worktrees/<name>/locked) are removed.
  • Operations Restored: The Delete, Rename, and Change Folder (Move) options in the Actions menu are immediately re-enabled.
  • Zero File Impact: Unlocking does not touch project files, uncommitted edits, or local branch commit history.
  • Prune Eligibility: If the worktree directory is later removed from disk, Git and WorktreeWise will recognize it as an eligible candidate for pruning.
Lock a WorktreeRepair a Damaged Worktree