Tree service pricing varies significantly based on tree size, location, access, and type of work required. Use these ranges as general guidance—always get multiple quotes for major work.

Tree Removal Costs

Small Trees

Under 20 feet / 6 meters

$300 - $1,200

  • Typical: Ornamental trees, young conifers
  • Time: 2-4 hours
  • Equipment: Hand tools, small chipper

Medium Trees

20-40 feet / 6-12 meters

$1,200 - $3,500

  • Typical: Mature birch, small fir, fruit trees
  • Time: 4-8 hours
  • Equipment: Climbing gear, chipper

Large Trees

40-60 feet / 12-18 meters

$3,500 - $7,000

  • Typical: Mature cedar, oak, large maple
  • Time: 1-2 days
  • Equipment: May need crane

Very Large Trees

Over 60 feet / 18+ meters

$7,000 - $15,000+

  • Typical: Old growth fir, large cedar
  • Time: 2-4 days
  • Equipment: Crane, specialized rigging

Pruning & Trimming Costs

Basic Pruning

$200 - $600

Crown cleaning, deadwood removal, minor shaping for small to medium trees.

Standard Pruning

$400 - $1,500

Crown thinning, raising, or reduction for medium to large trees. Multiple techniques.

Major Pruning

$1,500 - $4,000

Extensive work on very large trees, complex crown reduction, restoration pruning.

Additional Services

Stump Grinding

$150 - $500 depending on diameter. Typical: $3-5 per inch of diameter.

Emergency Service

50-100% premium over regular rates. Minimum $500-800 call-out for after-hours.

Tree Risk Assessment

$200 - $600 for certified arborist inspection and written report.

Cabling & Bracing

$400 - $1,500 to support weak branches or split trunks.

Crane Rental

$500 - $2,000 per day when needed for large tree removal or difficult access.

What Affects the Price?

Tree Size & Species

Larger trees require more time, equipment, and expertise. Dense hardwoods (oak, maple) cost more than softwoods (cedar, fir).

Location & Access

Trees near structures, on slopes, or with narrow access paths increase difficulty and cost. Backyard trees cost more than front yard.

Health & Condition

Dead, diseased, or structurally compromised trees are more dangerous and unpredictable, increasing labor costs.

Obstacles & Hazards

Power lines, proximity to structures, underground utilities, and limited drop zones all add complexity and cost.

Time of Year

Winter work may cost less (lower demand) while summer and emergency calls cost more (high demand, urgent need).

Permits & Compliance

Permit fees ($150-300), required inspections, and replacement tree costs add to total project expenses.

How to Get Accurate Quotes

  • Get 3-5 quotes for major work over $1,500
  • Require site visits – never accept quotes without in-person assessment
  • Ask for written estimates including all costs (labor, equipment, debris removal)
  • Verify insurance – minimum $2M liability plus WorkSafeBC coverage
  • Check credentials – ISA certification, business license, references
  • Clarify what's included – cleanup, stump grinding, haul-away usually extra
  • Don't choose on price alone – cheapest often means uninsured or cutting corners
  • Get timeline in writing – when work starts, expected completion
  • Understand payment terms – deposit (typically 0-25%), final payment upon completion

Red Flags: When a Quote Seems Too Good

  • Price 30%+ below other quotes
  • Cash-only payment requested
  • No proof of insurance available
  • High-pressure tactics or urgency
  • "Tree expert" without certifications
  • Quote given without seeing the tree
  • Payment required upfront

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