Tree removal costs approximately $5 to $25 per foot of tree height or $300 to $2,000 for trees from 30' to 80' tall. Trees under 30' in height cost between $150 to $500 to remove. Removing tall trees may require bringing the tree down in sections or using heavy equipment like a crane, which increases costs.

Tree removal services charge $65 to $140 per hour, on average. Small, young trees are easy and cheaper to remove since they don't require heavy equipment. Small trees between buildings cost more to remove since working in tight spaces is more difficult.

Fallen tree removal is 2 to 3 times less than the cost of cutting down a tree. Removing a dead tree is more costly since there is a greater risk that the tree will break and fall during removal.

Tree stump removal costs $100 to $400 or $2 to $6 per inch for stump grinding. Stump grinding is the most common way to remove a stump. Other methods include digging up the stump or rotting it with chemicals.

Tree stump removers charge $75 to $200 per hour and typically charge a minimum fee of $80 to $160 to come out. When multiple stumps are removed, the price for each additional stump decreases.

Expect to pay added costs for manual stump removal with hand tools in hard-to-reach areas. Extra fees also apply for backfilling excavation holes with new dirt.

The property owner is responsible for fallen tree removal. For trees that are close to the property line, the property with the bulk of the trunk is considered the owner.

If a tree falls on power lines, the electric utility company that owns the lines is responsible for repairing the line and restoring power, but not responsible for cleaning up tree debris from the property.

Homeowners insurance typically pays for trees that fall on an insured structure due to an unpredictable cause like a storm. Insurance does not cover tree damage caused by poorly maintained or dead trees.

Removing a 30' tree takes 2 to 4 hours including cleanup and cutting limbs. Larger trees take a full day to cut and remove. Trees near the home or power lines take longer to remove due to increased safety precautions.

Tree removal services typically provide the following services in addition to tree and stump removal:

• Tree trimming & pruning
• Tree health inspection & treatment
• Tree planting & transplanting
• Tree & shrub fertilization
• Storm prep and tree support
• Land clearing

Tree removers do not expect tips for their service. If the job presents hidden difficulties or the workers exceed your expectations, consider tipping $20 to $50.

Tree removal is a risky job for the crew and for your home if something goes wrong. Feel confident that you are hiring the best contractor for the job by following these guidelines:

• Compare at least 3 estimates from licensed and insured contractors.
• Look for contractors with exceptional reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask for a list of references with contact details.
• Get a written contract, itemized bid, and proof of insurance before the work begins.
• Take photos before and after tree removal to document any problems.
• Avoid large deposits in advance of the work starting. Make the final payment when you are satisfied with the job.

Hiring the right tree removal service is an important decision. You need a crew with the proper equipment and experience to remove the trees safely. Ask these important questions to ensure you are making the right choice:

• How long has your tree service been in business?
• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for all crew members?
• How do you cut down the tree? What equipment will you use?
• Do you protect my lawn from damage by heavy machinery?
• Will you need to take down my fence to access the tree?
• Does your estimate include stump grinding, chipping limbs, and site cleanup?
• How long will the removal take?
• Are permits required, and if so, do you take care of the permitting process?