diff --git a/ctlearn/tools/train_model.py b/ctlearn/tools/train_model.py
index d3ed9f17..2ce4ced5 100644
--- a/ctlearn/tools/train_model.py
+++ b/ctlearn/tools/train_model.py
@@ -228,8 +228,6 @@ class TrainCTLearnModel(Tool):
     ).tag(config=True)
 
 
-    overwrite = Bool(help="Overwrite output dir if it exists").tag(config=True)
-
     aliases = {
         "signal": "TrainCTLearnModel.input_dir_signal",
         "background": "TrainCTLearnModel.input_dir_background",
@@ -239,33 +237,14 @@ class TrainCTLearnModel(Tool):
         ("o", "output"): "TrainCTLearnModel.output_dir",
     }
 
-    flags = {
-        "overwrite": (
-            {"TrainCTLearnModel": {"overwrite": True}},
-            "Overwrite existing files",
-        ),
-    }
-
-    classes = (
-        [
-            CTLearnModel,
-            DLDataReader,
-        ]
-        + classes_with_traits(CTLearnModel)
-        + classes_with_traits(DLDataReader)
-    )
+    classes = classes_with_traits(CTLearnModel) + classes_with_traits(DLDataReader)
 
     def setup(self):
-        # Check if the output directory exists and if it should be overwritten
+        # Check if the output directory exists
         if self.output_dir.exists():
-            if not self.overwrite:
-                raise ToolConfigurationError(
-                    f"Output directory {self.output_dir} already exists. Use --overwrite to overwrite."
-                )
-            else:
-                # Remove the output directory if it exists
-                self.log.info("Removing existing output directory %s", self.output_dir)
-                shutil.rmtree(self.output_dir)
+            raise ToolConfigurationError(
+                f"Output directory {self.output_dir} already exists."
+            )
         # Create a MirroredStrategy.
         self.strategy = tf.distribute.MirroredStrategy()
         atexit.register(self.strategy._extended._collective_ops._lock.locked)  # type: ignore