Cost of Tree Removal

A Simple Guide to Pricing

Are you looking to remove a larger tree or trees from your property but unsure how much it will cost?

Tree removal can be an expensive undertaking, with prices varying widely based on the tree size, location, access, and equipment required.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the key factors that influence the cost of hiring a tree removal service, so you can better understand what goes into pricing this job and get a rough estimate for your specific situation.

Pro Tree Removal will also provide average price ranges, tips for saving money, and answers to frequently asked questions about the price for tree removal.

Why Tree Removal is Expensive

Removing a larger tree, especially a mature one, is not a simple task. Here are some of the main reasons a professional tree removal job can be costly:

  • Special Equipment – Bucket trucks, cranes, chainsaws, and wood chippers are needed to safely and efficiently remove entire trees. A tree removal service must purchase and maintain these heavy equipment machines.
  • Labor – It takes a crew of trained arborists and groundsmen to assess the tree, rig it for felling, disassemble it piece-by-piece, and clean up the green waste. Paying qualified labor wages factors heavily into pricing.
  • Overhead – Insurance, licensing, administrative costs, and waste disposal fees add to a company’s operating expenses that are included in quotes. Public liability insurance is mandatory.
  • Access issues – Taking down a tree in a tight space or removing it from a backyard raises logistical challenges that take more time and resources. Traffic management may be required.
  • Safety concerns – Following safety protocols to protect property, homes, and power lines adds complexity and risk that increase the cost of removal. Proper safety equipment is essential.

Factors That Influence the Cost

The exact price to remove a tree can range widely, from a couple hundred dollars for a small tree up to $5,000+ for a massive tree. The final amount depends on the following key factors:

Tree Size and Dimensions

The size of the tree is the biggest determinant of price. Removing a large 75-foot tree vs a 25-foot tree has a major impact on equipment needs, crew size, hours required, and overall pricing. The entire tree’s height, diameter, canopy width, and volume all affect the time and resources needed.

Tree Location and Access

Is the tree in the open or surrounded by buildings? Can heavy equipment access the area? Is a cherry picker or crane work on a narrow street required? Difficult access drives up costs significantly. Backyard trees or trees amidst utility lines or structures require more technical rigging and labor.

Type of Tree and Condition

Healthy hardwoods like oak require extra effort to dismantle large branches and trunks. Weak or compromised trees also add complexity and danger. Any precautions needed raise the price. Palm trees have specialised removal needs.

Stump Removal

This optional service to remove the tree stump after cutting down the tree adds an average of $100-$400 depending on the stump size. Large stumps usually need machine grinding which costs more than simply cutting a small stump flush to the ground.

Other Site Factors

Debris hauling fees, landfill tipping fees, city permits, sidewalk/pavement repairs and more can add extra costs beyond the basic tree felling. Any site prep or cleanup work will increase the total bill. Council permission may be required.

Average Cost Ranges for Tree Removal

To get an initial idea of typical tree removal costs, here are some average price ranges by tree size:

  • Small trees under 30 ft – $150 to $500
  • Medium trees 30-60 ft – $500 to $1,000
  • Large trees 60-80+ feet – $1,000 to $5,000

Giant tree removals over 100 ft can exceed $5,000. Prices easily go up from these averages based on any difficult access, safety issues, or additional services requested. Always get an itemised quote for your specific job.

Ways to Save Money on Tree Removal

If the estimates for taking down your tree seem overly expensive, here are some tips that may help reduce the tree removal price:

  • Ask about discounts for removing multiple trees at once.
  • Go with a limited service to just cut down the tree and leave the stump if full removal is not needed.
  • Compare rates from at least 3 reputable tree services to find the best value.
  • Schedule the work in the winter off-season when demand is lower.
  • Request weekend or evening work for lower hourly rates.
  • Avoid emergency removals which have premium pricing. Plan ahead if possible.
  • Consider handles some cleanup work yourself to save on debris disposal costs.
  • Negotiate partial payment upfront and balance upon completion. Avoid financing.

Make sure to only choose licensed and insured professionals, even for discount work. Never sacrifice safety to save money on a big tree removal project.

Frequently Asked Questions on Tree Removal Costs

Below are answers to some common questions about pricing for removing trees:

Does tree height or trunk diameter matter more?

Tree height is generally the bigger cost factor. Removing a taller tree requires more equipment like cranes and bucket trucks. Larger trunks do require heavier-duty equipment but not necessarily more complex rigging.

How much does it cost to remove a 50 foot tree?

For a 50 foot tree, expect to pay $800 – $1,500 on average depending on the tree species, location, and access. Medium oak and pine trees in this height range would fall in this pricing estimate.

When does hiring a crane become necessary?

Generally trees 75-100 feet and taller require a crane for safe removal. The crane is needed to hoist professional arborists up into the canopy and lower large sections safely. This can add $500-$2,000 or more to the total cost.

Should I leave the tree stump or have it removed?

Removing the stump costs an extra $100-$400 typically. If the tree stump doesn’t bother you and will decompose naturally, leaving it can save money. But grinding or digging it out is recommended if doing future landscaping or building over the area.

Does tree removal require a permit?

In many cities and counties, a permit is required to remove trees over a certain size, or heritage and protected trees. Research regulations for your area and obtain any required council permits to avoid violations.

Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions about estimating your tree removal cost. I’m happy to provide more details tailored to your specific project.

Conclusion

In summary, removing additional trees on your property can be a major project.

It requires a professional team, specialised equipment, and proper planning to ensure it is done safely.

Always get quotes from licenced arborists and check if a tree removal permit is needed in your area.

With the right tree service and preparation, you can undertake tree removal confidently.