How much does tree removal cost?

By size: small (under 30 ft): $150-$500. Medium (30-60 ft): $400-$1,200. Large (60-80 ft): $800-$2,000. Very large (80+ ft): $1,500-$5,000+. National average: $750-$1,200. Stump grinding: add $100-$400. Emergency removal: add 50-100% premium. Cost factors: size (height and diameter). Location (near house or power lines = more). Species (hardwood heavier). Accessibility. Always get 3 quotes. Prices vary significantly between companies.

Does homeowners insurance cover tree removal?

If the tree falls on your house or other structure: yes, usually covered under your homeowner's policy. Includes: removal of the tree, repair of the structure. Deductible applies. If the tree falls in your yard (no structure damage): usually NOT covered. You pay for removal. Exception: some policies cover fallen tree removal up to $500-$1,000. If a neighbor's tree falls on your property: your insurance covers the damage (not the neighbor's). If it was dead and you had notified the neighbor in writing: the neighbor may be liable. Preventive removal (before it falls): not covered by insurance. Cost: $150-$5,000+ out of pocket.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

It depends on your city and county. Many cities require permits for: trees above a certain size (often 6-8 inch trunk diameter). Protected species (oak, maple, etc. in some areas). Trees in historic districts. Trees near property lines or public right-of-way. How to check: call your city planning or building department. Check your HOA rules (many HOAs have tree removal restrictions). Penalties for removing without a permit: fines ($500-$10,000+ depending on the tree). Required replacement planting (often 2-3 trees per tree removed). Exception: dead or hazardous trees often exempt from permits (but document the hazard with photos).

How long does tree removal take?

Small tree (under 30 ft): 1-3 hours. Medium tree (30-60 ft): 3-6 hours. Large tree (60-80 ft): half day to full day. Very large or complex (80+ ft, near structures): 1-2 days. Stump grinding: 30 minutes to 2 hours (per stump). Factors: number of cuts needed. Rigging required. Access and space. Hauling and cleanup. The actual cutting is often quick. Setup, rigging, and cleanup take the most time.

Article

Woodworking & Lumber

Tree Removal Guide: Cost, When & How

Lumberama Editorial Team, Tree Care & Arborist Specialists Nov 9, 2026 9 min read

When to Remove a Tree

Safety hazards: Dead or dying tree (brittle branches, no leaves). Leaning significantly toward a structure. Large dead branches over roof, driveway, or walkway. Storm-damaged trunk or root system. Hollow or decayed trunk (tap test: sounds hollow).

Property concerns: Roots damaging foundation, sidewalk, or sewer lines. Tree too close to house (branches touching roof or siding). Blocking sunlight from garden or solar panels. Causing excessive leaf, sap, or fruit debris.

Health issues: Severe insect infestation (emerald ash borer, bark beetles). Fungal disease (mushrooms growing on trunk or base). More than 50% of the canopy is dead. Multiple large dead branches.

When NOT to remove: Minor cosmetic issues (can be trimmed). Healthy tree that just needs pruning. Tree that could be saved with treatment. Historic or protected species (check local ordinances).

Cost

By tree size: Small tree (under 30 ft): $150-$500. Medium tree (30-60 ft): $400-$1,200. Large tree (60-80 ft): $800-$2,000. Very large tree (80+ ft): $1,500-$5,000+.

Average tree removal: National average: $750-$1,200.

Additional costs: Stump grinding: $100-$400 (per stump). Stump removal (pulling out): $200-$600. Limb chipping: usually included. Hauling: $50-$200 (if not included). Emergency/storm removal: add 50-100% premium.

Cost factors: Height and trunk diameter. Location (near house, power lines, fence = more). Number of trunks. Accessibility (tight spaces cost more). Species (hardwoods heavier than softwoods). Health (dead trees can be more dangerous to remove).

DIY vs professional: Small trees (under 20 ft): can be DIY with chainsaw. Anything near structures, power lines, or above 20 ft: hire a professional. Insurance and liability: professionals carry liability insurance ($1-$2 million typical). If a DIY tree falls on your neighbor's property, you are liable.

The Process

Before removal: Check if a permit is required (many cities require them for trees over a certain size). Get 3 quotes from licensed and insured arborists. Check for protected species. Notify neighbors if tree is near property line.

Removal process: 1. Clear the area (move vehicles, furniture, plants). 2. Climber or bucket truck accesses the canopy. 3. Limbs are removed top-down (rigging lines control fall direction). 4. Trunk is sectioned from top to bottom. 5. Debris is chipped or hauled. 6. Stump is ground (optional but recommended).

After removal: Fill stump hole with soil and seed/sod. Consider planting a replacement tree (not the same species if disease was the issue). Save wood for firewood if desired (hardwoods: 6-12 months of seasoning).