Tree Removal Cost In 2025. Stump Removal And Tree Trimming Services Cost Near You.

Tree Removal Cost — Real Numbers, No Nonsense

Sometimes, a tree has to go — whether it’s leaning toward the house, damaged after a storm, or standing right where you want to build a patio. The question most homeowners ask first: how much is this going to cost me?

Based on contractor quotes, insurance estimates, and job records from past years, it’s clear that pricing is more than just tree size. Access, safety, location, tree health, and even regional rules all play a role. That’s why two homeowners with trees of the same height might pay completely different prices.

Estimated Pricing by Diameter (DBH)

One of the simplest ways professionals estimate tree removal pricing is by checking how thick the trunk is around chest level — a standard point known in the industry as DBH, or Diameter at Breast Height.

Tree Diameter (DBH)	Typical Cost Range
6–12 inches	$500–$600
12–24 inches	$1,200–$1,500
24–36 inches	$1,600–$1,900
36–48 inches	$2,200–$2,500
Over 48 inches	From $2,700

From years of contractor experience, trees larger than 36 inches typically require sectional removal with rope rigging and extra ground crew — adding time, equipment, and risk.

Example: What You Might Actually Pay

Let’s say you have a 30-inch oak tree behind your home. It’s 50 feet tall, healthy, but located in a tight corner near your fence.

A quote might look like this:

• Base removal (based on size): $1,700
• Extra charge for limited access (no truck access): +$250
• Roping and sectional lowering: +$300
• Total: around $2,250

And that’s before considering stump grinding or debris haul-away.

What’s Usually Included?

Most quotes cover:

• Full takedown of the tree
• Basic cleanup of branches
• Loading wood into a truck or chipper

But many companies don’t include:

• Stump grinding
• Hauling large logs
• Lawn repair after heavy equipment
• Permit costs or fees (if needed)

That’s why professionals recommend always getting a written, detailed quote before approving the work.

What Actually Affects the Cost of Tree Removal?

It’s easy to assume tree removal is just about size — but professionals will tell you that’s only part of the story. Over the years, certain details come up again and again that shift the price up (or down), even if the tree looks “average” at first glance.

Here’s what really matters, based on real-world jobs and contractor estimates:

Tree Height and Structure

Taller trees take more time and more care — especially if they’re surrounded by obstacles like fences, power lines, or buildings.

A 60-foot pine in an open backyard? Manageable. A 40-foot maple next to your house and leaning over your shed? Very different story.

Some removals require sectioning the tree limb by limb and lowering each part by rope to avoid damage. That takes a trained crew, climbing gear, and more hours on-site.

Crown Spread and Branch Volume

A dense tree with a wide canopy takes longer to clear — plain and simple. More branches = more hauling, more chipping, and more cleanup.

Trees like hickory and sycamore tend to grow thick crowns that create a lot of volume. That adds weight and complexity.

Site Access

How easy is it for the crew to get to the tree? Is there a fence, narrow gate, slope, or landscaping in the way?

If machinery like a cherry picker or chipper truck can’t get close, workers have to carry everything by hand — and that slows the job down dramatically.

In some cases, poor access can add $200–$600 to a job that would otherwise be routine.

Terrain and Location

Flat yards are easier. Sloped, rocky, or uneven terrain increases difficulty and risk — especially when heavy equipment is involved. Contractors also pay attention to what's underneath the tree: a pool, patio, or shed? They’ll need to work around it, and that means more planning and more time.

Tree Health and Stability

Is the tree dead, decaying, or already splitting?

Ironically, dead trees can sometimes be harder to remove because of rot. Rotten wood doesn’t support weight well, making climbing dangerous and rigging more complicated. It often means higher labor costs and more safety precautions.

Urgency of the Job

Same-day emergency? Expect a premium. If a tree falls on your garage or blocks a driveway, a crew may need to reshuffle their schedule — and they’ll charge accordingly. Fast turnaround = higher price.

On the flip side, scheduling your removal during off-peak times or a few weeks in advance often comes with discounts.

What’s Not Always Included in a Tree Removal Quote

A lot of homeowners look at the number on the estimate and assume it covers everything. In reality, many quotes only include the basics — and some of the most common extra charges don’t show up until after the work has started.

From the experience of contractors and customers alike, here are the most frequent “hidden” or optional costs:

Stump Removal

Tree removal and stump removal are almost always billed separately. Why? Because removing a stump requires different tools — usually a stump grinder — and often an extra crew visit.

Expect to pay:

• $2.50–$5.00 per inch of stump diameter
• Or around $200–$600 total depending on size and root depth

Some contractors offer a discount if stump grinding is added during the initial removal — but it’s rarely included by default.

Hauling and Disposal

Many estimates include cutting the tree down, but not actually hauling it away. You might be left with a stack of heavy logs in your yard unless hauling is written into the contract.

Watch for charges like:

• $100–$350 for log removal
• $50–$150 for wood chip cleanup
• Disposal fees at the local dump or mulch center

Some companies will offer to leave the wood for firewood — which can save money, but only if you’re prepared to handle it yourself.

Lawn Damage and Restoration

Lawn damage is common when heavy tools are used on soft or uneven ground — especially near sprinklers, stone paths, or landscaping features. While responsible crews use plywood or mats to minimize impact, lawn repair is not usually included unless you ask.

Permit or City Fee Charges

We’ll cover this more in the permit section, but know that some cities require homeowners to pay small fees or taxes on tree work, especially if the tree is protected or near public property. This can range from $25 to several hundred dollars — and not all companies handle it for you.

How Tree Species Can Change the Price

It’s not just about how big the tree is — what kind of tree matters just as much. The species can impact everything from the time it takes to cut to how hard the job is on the crew and equipment.

Dense Wood Takes More Work

Oak, maple, and hickory are the kinds of trees that grow thick, solid wood — the kind that doesn't come down easily or quickly. They're not easy to cut through — and that translates directly into higher labor time and equipment strain.

Removing something like a 30-inch oak often ends up costing noticeably more than taking down a pine of the same size. Taking down oak usually means more saw time, heavier lifting, and extra caution — especially if the tree’s leaning near structures or tight spaces.

Softwoods like pine or fir are easier on the tools and faster to clear — which often keeps the job simpler and the cost lower.

Brittle or Compromised Trees

Some types of trees naturally drop limbs or split under pressure — cottonwoods and poplars are good examples. Crews need to be extra cautious when working around these, especially if decay has already set in. The more unpredictable the structure, the more time and safety measures are needed.

Root System Behavior

Not all trees stop at ground level. Willows, sycamores, and silver maples are known for root systems that spread out in every direction. These can push up patios, crack sidewalks, or wrap around underground lines. In some cases, removing the tree is only part of the job — dealing with the roots becomes a whole separate task.

Regional Prevalence

Contractors tend to work faster with tree types they see often. In areas where pine is everywhere, crews move through them quickly and pricing stays predictable. But rare or overgrown trees, especially if planted decades ago as ornamentals, may need a more specialized approach.

“We’ve done hundreds of loblolly pines. But if it’s a 50-year-old black walnut hanging over someone’s greenhouse, that’s not your everyday job,” as one contractor in Georgia told us.

Knowing what species you're dealing with — even roughly — helps you get faster, more accurate quotes. And in some cities, it's required info before the work can even begin.

How the Tree Removal Process Works — Step by Step

If you’ve never gone through the process before, hiring someone to remove a tree can feel like a big step. But in most cases, when you’re working with a solid team, the job runs smoothly from start to finish — without turning your whole yard upside down.

Below is a simple walk-through of what usually happens — from the initial call to the final clean sweep of your yard.

1. Requesting a Quote

Most companies start with a quick phone call or online form. You’ll be asked basic details:

• Where is the tree located?
• How big is it (height or trunk width)?
• Is it near structures, wires, or fences?
• Do you want the stump removed too?

Many contractors can give you a rough estimate right away. For anything complex, they’ll schedule a site visit.

2. Site Visit and Final Quote

If needed, someone will come out to inspect the tree in person. This helps confirm access, safety, and any special equipment requirements.

You’ll get a detailed quote with a breakdown: base removal, optional stump grinding, haul-away, and cleanup. Reputable pros will also note what’s not included — like permits or yard repair.

Experienced companies usually offer this step for free — and many suggest getting at least two estimates before choosing.

3. Scheduling the Job

Once you accept the quote, you’ll pick a date. In busy months (spring and fall), expect to wait 1–2 weeks. Emergency jobs — like storm damage or fallen trees — often jump the line.

Crews typically work in windows, not exact hours:

“We’ll arrive between 8 and 10 AM, weather permitting.”

Make sure the driveway or access area is clear the day before.

4. On-Site Work

Most removals take 2 to 6 hours, depending on the tree’s size and location. Bigger or more technical jobs may run longer.

The process includes:

• Setting up equipment and safety gear
• Cutting down the tree in sections
• Lowering limbs safely to the ground
• Clearing debris or feeding into a chipper
• Optional stump grinding (same day or next)

If a crane is needed, the job may take longer and involve extra coordination.

5. Cleanup and Walkthrough

Once the tree is down, the crew handles basic cleanup:

• Raking small debris
• Blowing sawdust
• Hauling or stacking wood (if agreed in advance)

Many companies will do a quick walkaround with you afterward to make sure the area is clear and the job is complete.

Payment is usually due upon completion — by card, check, or online invoice.

Stump Grinding and Root Removal — What Really Happens After the Tree Comes Down

Cutting down a tree may solve one problem, but what’s left in the ground — the stump — can bring new ones. It gets in the way of mowing, stops you from planting in that space, and in some cases becomes a home for ants or beetles. That’s why most tree crews will ask early on: “Want us to take care of the stump too?”

From the contractor’s point of view, it’s easier and cheaper to handle the stump during the same visit, rather than coming back days later. For homeowners, it also means the job’s truly finished — no leftover eyesore in the middle of the yard.

Grinding vs. Full Removal — When to Choose What

Most companies offer two approaches. The first, and by far the most common, is grinding. The crew brings in a special machine that chips away at the stump until it’s a few inches below the surface. That’s usually enough to let grass grow over it or cover the area with mulch. In fact, many contractors say this is the option nine out of ten clients go with — it’s quick, effective, and doesn’t disturb the rest of the yard.

Full stump removal, on the other hand, is a bigger project. It often involves digging up part of the root system and pulling everything out by hand or with a backhoe. According to seasoned contractors, this route makes sense if you’re laying down concrete, putting in a garden bed, or have roots pushing up near pipes or patios.

One contractor put it simply: “If you're building something in that space, take it out. If not, grinding is more than enough.”

What Do Homeowners Usually Pay?

Stump work isn’t priced the same way everywhere, but most contractors base it on diameter, wood type, and how easy it is to bring in equipment. Here's what typical rates look like across much of the U.S.:

Stump Size	Expected Range
Small (1–12")	$150–$250
Medium (12–24")	$300–$400
Large (24–36")	$400–$550
Very large (36”+)	$550+

Some crews charge by the inch — usually between $2.50 and $5.00 per inch across the widest part of the stump. If it’s old and soft, the job takes less time. If it’s freshly cut hardwood, expect the high end of the range.

From years of experience, many tree companies agree: it’s the fresh oaks that wear out the grinder blades the fastest.

What About the Roots?

Most homeowners don’t need full root removal unless the tree was too close to hard surfaces or utility lines. In standard yards, roots are left to decay naturally underground — they rarely cause trouble.

Still, if you’ve got future plans for the space or just want a totally clean slate, it’s best to talk it through with your contractor before the work begins. Root removal takes more time, more digging, and often a second quote.

Tree Removal Costs by State — Why Prices Vary So Much

Ask around, and you’ll hear it firsthand — the cost to remove a tree can swing wildly depending on where you live. A job that runs $900 in one state might cost over $2,000 in another. It’s not just about the size of the tree — local wages, rules, and even the neighborhood itself can all affect the final bill.

Why Does Location Matter So Much?

According to tree service professionals, here are the biggest regional factors that drive the price up or down:

• Labor rates — In states with higher wages (like California, New York, or Massachusetts), crews cost more per hour, and those costs get passed on.
• Insurance requirements — Tree work involves real risk, and insurance premiums are higher in some areas. Coastal states, for example, tend to have stricter liability rules.
• Permit rules — Some cities require multiple permits, inspections, or approval from an arborist before you can take down certain trees — all of which adds time and cost.
• Demand and seasonality — After hurricanes, fires, or major storms, local crews get swamped — and prices rise accordingly. The same goes for fast-growing areas with lots of new construction.

“In a place like South Florida, you might pay twice what someone in the Midwest pays — not because the work is harder, but because everything around it is more expensive,” explains one tree care manager from Fort Lauderdale.

Where Is It Most Expensive?

Based on data from contractors and cost tracking sites, here are some of the highest-cost states for tree removal:

• California
• Hawaii
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Florida (urban and coastal zones)

Here, tree removal for a 24-inch oak could run $1,800–$2,500 or more, especially in dense residential areas where cranes or extra permits are required.

Where Can You Expect Lower Costs?

On the other end of the spectrum, these states often report lower average prices:

• Tennessee
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• Ohio
• Arkansas

In many of these areas, the same 24-inch tree might be removed for $800–$1,200 — mainly due to lower labor costs, fewer restrictions, and easier access.

Tip From the Field

“It’s not just the size of the tree,” one contractor noted. “It’s where the job is, how tight the space is, and what we’re allowed to do legally without red tape.”

Permits, Licensing, and How to Check a Tree Contractor Before You Hire

Before you bring in a crew, it’s worth understanding who’s responsible for what. In some cities, you can cut down a backyard tree without notifying anyone. In others, you might need a permit, a signed letter from an arborist, or a review from the city’s environmental office — even if the tree is on your own land.

Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on two things: where you live and what kind of tree you’re removing. Most cities and counties post their tree removal rules online, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Protected species or large trees often require permission, especially in places like California, Oregon, or parts of the East Coast.
• Historic neighborhoods may have added restrictions — even if the tree is dying.
• HOAs (Homeowners Associations) sometimes have their own rules on top of local laws.

Most professional companies know the rules in your area and will help with the paperwork if needed — or at least point you in the right direction.

Who Handles the Tree Removal Permit — You or the Contractor?

In areas where permits are required, most seasoned contractors will handle the process for you — especially if they’re familiar with your local city or county office. That said, it’s something you’ll want to clarify early, since not every company includes permitting in their service by default.

Pro tip: If a company says “we’ll just do it quietly” in a city that requires permits — that’s a red flag.

How to Check a Contractor Before Hiring

Not all tree companies are equal — and when the job involves heavy equipment, climbing, and power tools, you want someone who’s fully insured and knows what they’re doing.

Here’s how to vet a company quickly:

• Ask for proof of insurance — both liability and worker’s comp
• Check their license (if required in your state)
• Look up recent reviews — especially ones with before-and-after photos
• Ask how long they’ve been in business
• See if they use their own equipment or rent it

One homeowner in Atlanta told us, “The guy who brought his own chipper and lift finished in half the time and left less of a mess than the cheaper crew I used before.”

Spending 10 minutes on research can save hours of cleanup — or even an insurance headache — later.

Trimming vs. Pruning — Not the Same Job, and Here’s Why That Matters

Most homeowners don’t think twice about the difference — until they call a contractor and get two very different quotes for what they assumed was the same thing.

According to Eli Martinez, a certified arborist with over 15 years of experience in residential tree care, understanding the distinction between trimming and pruning makes all the difference in price, timing, and long-term tree health.

“Trimming is for shape and safety. Pruning is about structure and survival. We look at the tree’s condition first — then decide which it really needs,” says Eli, who runs a tree care company outside Tampa, FL.

What’s the Real Difference?

Trimming is about control. When branches start stretching too close to your roof, shading out your lawn, or leaning into power lines, trimming brings things back in check. Trimming is mostly about keeping the tree from getting out of hand. When fast growers like red maples or spruce start creeping toward the roofline or spilling into sidewalks, trimming reins them in. It helps shape the crown, clears space around structures, and keeps the tree from blocking light or views. Most trees like these benefit from a cleanup every year or two, especially in urban areas where space is tight.

Pruning is a different kind of work. It’s focused on what’s going on inside the tree — removing weak limbs, branches that rub or tangle, and areas that aren’t getting enough light or air. For trees that bear fruit, this step is especially important. Pruning helps the tree put its energy into strong, healthy growth and keeps fungal problems from taking hold.

“When we see limbs snapping off in a breeze or fungus along the trunk, that’s usually a sign it’s time to clean things up from the inside out,” Eli says.

When’s the Right Time to Do Each?

Trimming can usually be done almost any time of year, but late fall and early spring are the most popular. Cooler temperatures make for easier cleanup, and with fewer leaves on the tree, the crew can work faster and see what they’re cutting. It’s also safer when the tree is dry and not actively growing.

Pruning is best done in the dormant season — typically in late winter, just before new buds appear. That timing gives the tree a chance to heal naturally, before warm weather brings insects, mold, or stress from active growth. Pruning while the tree is still dormant means less sap loss, fewer open wounds, and a lower risk of shock — especially for hardwood species like oak or hickory that don’t respond well to mid-season cuts.

As Eli puts it, “You don’t tune up an engine while it’s running full speed. Trees need that quiet window to recover, just like people do.”

The Job Itself — Not as Simple as It Sounds

Both trimming and pruning require trained hands. It’s not just about climbing with a chainsaw — it’s about understanding the weight distribution of limbs, how to cut at the collar without creating damage, and where to thin the canopy without leaving the tree vulnerable.

A good crew will:

Use proper harnesses and rigging for tall trees

Cut in a way that avoids tearing bark or opening wounds

Never “top” a tree (cutting off the main leader), which weakens structure

Clean up all debris and haul it away unless otherwise agreed

“You can ruin a tree with one bad cut,” says Eli. “I've seen $3,000 oaks get killed by a guy with a pole saw who meant well.”

What Does It Cost?

Here’s a general price range, depending on tree height and complexity:

Tree Height	Typical Cost
Under 25 feet	$250–$500
25–50 feet	$500–$750
Over 50 feet	$750–$1200

Costs go up for trees near structures, with tight access, or requiring extra equipment like bucket trucks or climbers. Some homeowners request debris to be chipped for mulch — which can also affect price.

What Actually Happens During a Tree Removal Job?

If it’s your first time hiring someone to take down a tree, you’re probably wondering what the process looks like — and how much disruption to expect. The truth? With the right crew, it’s usually fast, clean, and surprisingly uneventful.

To explain it better, we’ll walk through how most pros handle the job, step by step — using the experience of Marcus J., a Florida-based tree removal contractor who’s taken down everything from backyard palms to 80-foot storm-damaged oaks.

“The best jobs are the ones where the homeowner says, ‘That’s it?’ when we’re done,” Marcus says. “If we’ve done our part, it should feel like we were barely there — except the tree’s gone.”

Step 1: The Walkthrough

Before any chainsaws come out, a crew member usually walks the site with the homeowner. They’ll check for fencing, power lines, garden beds, or anything else that could affect the removal. They might also ask about irrigation lines or underground utilities.

If access is tight — say, the tree’s wedged between houses — they’ll plan a drop zone or break it down in sections.

Step 2: Setting Up

Depending on the size of the tree and the tools involved, the team may bring in:

• A bucket truck or lift for tall removals
• Ropes and harnesses if climbing is needed
• A chipper or truck for hauling debris
• Ground protection mats if working near lawns or walkways

“For most jobs, setup takes longer than the actual cutting,” Marcus says. “It’s all about making sure nothing around the tree gets damaged.”

Step 3: The Removal Itself

If the space allows, smaller trees are often felled in one piece. Larger trees, especially near structures, are taken down limb by limb — starting from the top and working down to the trunk. Each cut is planned to avoid damage and keep everything stable.

Wood and branches are lowered with ropes when needed, not just tossed to the ground.

Step 4: Cleanup

Once the tree is down, the crew will usually:

• Chip the branches and haul them away
• Cut trunk sections into manageable sizes
• Rake the area and blow off sawdust
• Remove or leave the stump, depending on your contract

Good crews don’t leave behind messes or surprise fees.

“We always tell our clients — you’ll barely know we were here. No ruts in the lawn, no broken fence panels, no sawdust piles left for later,” Marcus explains.

Hiring a Tree Service — What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

A lot of homeowners think hiring someone to take down a tree is as simple as calling the first number they find online. But tree work isn’t just another weekend chore — it’s one of the few home services that involves real risk: heavy equipment, sharp tools, power lines, property damage, and injuries if things go wrong.

That’s why choosing the right contractor matters just as much as getting a good price.

We spoke with Andre Lewis, who’s been running a licensed tree crew in North Carolina for over a decade, to find out what makes a good hire — and what should be a red flag.

“Half of our emergency jobs come from homeowners who hired the cheapest guy they could find,” Andre says. “It’s always more expensive to fix a bad job than to do it right the first time.”

What to Check Before You Hire

Insurance — Always Ask for Proof Make sure the company carries both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If they don’t, and someone gets hurt or your property is damaged, the responsibility could fall on you. License and Local Permits Many cities and counties require a tree contractor to be licensed — especially if large equipment is involved or trees are protected. Ask if they’ve worked in your neighborhood before, and whether they’ll handle permit paperwork or expect you to. Clear, Written Estimate Get a written quote that lists all the work: cutting, hauling, stump grinding, cleanup. If something’s not in writing, don’t assume it’s included. Reputation Look beyond star ratings. Read actual reviews — especially the bad ones. Are people complaining about no-shows? Surprise fees? Damaged property? Also, check if the business name is consistent across platforms — shady contractors often rebrand to dodge bad press. Equipment and Safety Gear A pro team won’t show up in flip-flops with a chainsaw from the hardware store. Look for helmets, rigging gear, ground protection mats, and signs that they take safety seriously.

Common Red Flags to Avoid

Cash-only jobs with no paperwork If a contractor won’t provide an invoice or proof of insurance, walk away — no matter how low the price sounds. Pressure to decide “right now” Good companies stay booked. If someone is pushing you to sign on the spot with a “today only” price, that’s usually a bad sign. Vague answers or unclear scope If you ask a question and get a generic response like “we’ll take care of it,” but they won’t say how — that’s your cue to get a second opinion.

“The best clients I’ve worked with asked a lot of questions,” Andre says. “And the best crews I know answer them before they’re even asked.”

What’s Usually Included in the Price — And What’s Not

If you’ve never hired a tree service before, you might assume everything is included by default. But that’s not always the case. Some contractors give you a flat rate that covers everything from start to finish. Others offer a lower quote up front — but charge extra once the job starts.

To avoid surprises, it helps to know what’s typically part of the deal, and what you’ll need to ask for ahead of time.

We talked to Lisa Tran, who runs a residential tree care crew in Missouri, about what most homeowners overlook.

“It’s not about catching anyone off guard,” Lisa says. “It’s about knowing what you’re actually paying for — and making sure there’s no miscommunication.”

What’s Usually Included

Tree removal Cutting the tree down safely, usually in sections. For small trees, this might mean one clean felling. For larger ones, it could involve climbing, rigging, and piece-by-piece removal. Cleanup and debris hauling Most professional crews will chip the branches, remove the cut wood, rake up sawdust, and leave the area tidy. If you want to keep the wood for firewood or mulch, let them know early. Basic liability insurance Reputable companies carry insurance and include it in their pricing — it protects both you and them in case of property damage. Site protection Things like plywood or turf mats to avoid ruts in your lawn, or planning around fences and flowerbeds.

What’s Often Not Included (Unless You Ask)

Stump grinding or root removal Many homeowners assume this is part of the price, but it's often a separate service. Some companies list it as an optional add-on — especially for large stumps that require special machinery. Permits and city paperwork In some areas, a permit is required even for basic tree removal. Some contractors handle it for you, others expect the homeowner to do it — and few include the permit fee in the base price. Hauling large trunk sections If you’re removing a big tree, some crews will leave the large trunk pieces for you to deal with unless hauling is part of the written quote. Don’t assume — ask. Emergency surcharges Storm damage removals, weekends, or same-day calls may come with extra charges. If the job is urgent, get that clarified up front. Disposal fees If your city charges a dump fee for green waste, the contractor may pass that cost along — especially if they're hauling a full load of debris.

Lisa adds: “It’s totally fine to ask, ‘Is that included?’ — the right contractor will appreciate that you want things clear.”

Tree Removal Scams and How to Avoid Them

Most tree service providers are hardworking, honest professionals. But like any high-ticket home service, the industry also attracts a few bad actors — people looking to make a quick buck off unsuspecting homeowners. And unfortunately, the damage they leave behind isn’t always limited to your wallet.

We spoke with Paul B., a certified arborist in South Carolina, who has been called in to fix the aftermath of shady jobs more times than he can count.

“We’ve seen everything — trees cut halfway, crews who disappear mid-job, even people who take deposits and never show up,” Paul says. “And the worst part? Homeowners are usually the ones left holding the bag.”

The Most Common Tree Service Scams

Door-to-door “specials” after storms After a big storm, it’s common to see pickup trucks offering “quick tree cleanup” at rock-bottom prices. Many are unlicensed and uninsured — and if something goes wrong, they vanish. Cash upfront, no paperwork A contractor who insists on full cash payment before starting, with no written agreement, is a red flag. Often they disappear or deliver poor work, knowing you have no recourse. “We were just in the neighborhood” pitches Some scammers pretend to be working nearby and offer a great price “since we’re already here.” Legitimate companies don’t operate like this — they schedule, quote, and plan properly. Sudden upselling mid-job The quote was $800, but once the crew starts cutting, the price jumps to $1,500 due to “unexpected difficulty.” Unless your contract includes allowances for this, don’t fall for it. Fake licensing or reviews Always verify credentials through your city or state database. And be wary of online reviews that look too perfect — many scam outfits create fake profiles to look trustworthy.

How to Protect Yourself

• Ask for a written quote and contract — no verbal agreements
• Check for business registration, insurance, and license numbers
• Never pay the full amount upfront — a small deposit is okay, but final payment should come after the job is complete
• Don’t be rushed — if a contractor pressures you into a fast decision, take a step back
• Get multiple bids if possible — it helps you spot prices that are too high or suspiciously low

“If someone sounds too eager or too cheap, ask more questions,” Paul advises. “It’s your yard, your home — don’t hand it over to the wrong person.”

Tree Preservation and When NOT to Cut — What to Consider Before You Remove a Tree

Not every tree that looks like trouble needs to be removed. In fact, sometimes keeping a mature tree can add more value — both to your property and the environment — than cutting it down ever could.

We talked with Jillian Meyers, a consulting arborist from Oregon who works with homeowners on long-term tree health and land planning.

“Most trees don’t need to come down,” Jillian says. “They need care, not a chainsaw. The real question is whether the tree is truly unsafe — or just inconvenient.”

When to Pause Before Removing a Tree

The tree is healthy and structurally sound If a certified arborist inspects the tree and finds no disease, root issues, or dangerous lean, it may be better to leave it in place. Removal takes minutes — but re-growing a shade canopy takes decades. It offers protection from wind, sun, or erosion Trees can act as natural barriers. In coastal or windy areas, a line of trees might be shielding your house from constant gusts. Removing them can unintentionally cause more exposure and damage over time. You’re cutting it for convenience Trimming a few limbs away from the roof or driveway might solve the problem — without losing the entire tree. A good contractor will tell you when pruning is enough. The tree adds real value to your yard Large, mature trees can increase property value by 10% or more, according to several real estate studies. If it’s not a safety hazard, it may be worth saving for the long-term benefit.

When Removal Is the Right Call

There are also clear-cut situations where removing a tree makes sense — and fast:

• Major trunk cracks, leaning toward a structure, or visible root heaving
• Tree is clearly dead or dying (no leaves, brittle branches, insect infestation)
• Storm damage has split or weakened the canopy
• Roots are damaging foundations, plumbing, or pavement
• Local ordinance requires removal (e.g., invasive species)

Ask for a Second Opinion

Reputable companies won’t push you toward removal just to land a job. If you’re unsure, call a certified arborist — not just a tree cutter. Some even offer consultations without pressure to buy.

“You don’t tear down a wall just because the paint’s peeling,” Jillian says. “It’s the same with trees — sometimes, the fix is much simpler than it looks.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal Services

Do I need permission to take down a tree?

If the tree’s tucked away in your yard and isn’t protected by local tree laws, chances are you won’t need any formal approval. But things get tricky when it’s close to sidewalks, roads, or power lines — or if it’s the kind of tree your city classifies as historically valuable or environmentally significant. Just a quick call to your local city office or HOA can clear things up — and save you from unexpected problems down the line.

How much does tree removal usually cost?

For smaller trees, you might spend a few hundred dollars. Bigger ones, or trees in tight spaces, can cost upwards of a few thousand. Ask for a written quote that includes removal, cleanup, and stump options so you’re not caught off guard.

Will the crew clean up after removing the tree?

Most crews leave the area in good shape — they’ll haul off debris, chip branches, and rake around where they worked. But if you’d rather keep the wood for your fireplace or use the chips around your garden, just let them know ahead of time. It’s a simple request, and most companies will gladly adjust their plan.

How do I know which contractor to trust?

Look for companies that keep their word — the kind that shows up when they say they will, answers questions clearly, and follows through without changing the price halfway through. The best crews don’t push you to commit. They give you space to compare, explain their process, and back up their work with real credentials and insurance.

Can I remove a tree myself?

Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended unless the tree is small, fully accessible, and far from any structures or power lines. Professional tree work requires specialized equipment and insurance for a reason. DIY tree removal is one of the most dangerous home projects.