Tree Removal Cost Guide

What affects the cost of tree removal?

Tree removal costs vary more than almost any other tree surgery job, because a small dead tree in an open garden and a large tree wedged between two buildings are entirely different undertakings. Here’s what genuinely drives the price.

Size and species. Height, trunk diameter and canopy spread all affect how long a removal takes and how much timber and brash needs to be handled afterwards. Some species are also heavier or more prone to splitting, which affects the method used.

Felling vs sectional dismantling. If there’s a clear, open space for the tree to fall into, a straightforward fell is usually quicker and more cost-effective. Where a tree is close to a house, fence, greenhouse, driveway or a neighbour’s garden, it typically needs to be dismantled in sections using ropes and rigging — a slower, more technical process that costs more.

Access for equipment and vehicles. A tree a lorry can park next to is a very different job from one at the end of a long, narrow path or behind a locked gate with no vehicle access at all — everything may need to be carried or lowered by hand.

Condition. Dead, diseased or storm-damaged trees can be more unpredictable to work on and sometimes need extra care or specialist techniques.

Waste and timber handling. Do you want the timber removed completely, cut into logs and left with you, or chipped on site? Full removal from site generally costs more than leaving material with the homeowner.

Stump grinding. Removing the tree and grinding the stump are usually two separate costs — see our stump grinding cost guide.

Tree Preservation Orders and conservation areas. If a tree is protected, time may be needed to confirm requirements with the local council before any work can go ahead — see our guide on Tree Preservation Orders in Scotland and do I need permission to cut down a tree.

Emergency removals. A fallen or dangerous tree needing urgent attention is generally priced differently from planned, booked-in-advance work.

Getting an accurate price

Send photos of the tree from a couple of angles, along with anything nearby that might be affected (fences, sheds, driveways, power lines) and let us know if it’s urgent. For larger or more complex removals we may recommend a site visit before confirming a final price.

Get a free tree removal quote or see our full tree surgeon cost guide for the wider picture.