Pricing
How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
Most Brunswick County residential removals run $500–$2,500 — with larger, leaning, or hazardous jobs climbing past $4,000. Here's what actually drives that number, so you can read a quote instead of guessing at one.
Cost by tree size
| Tree size | Typical range | Common locally |
|---|---|---|
| Small trees (under 30 ft) | $150–$450 | Dogwoods, crepe myrtles, young ornamentals |
| Medium trees (30–60 ft) | $450–$1,200 | Mid-growth pines, maples, smaller oaks |
| Large trees (60–80 ft) | $800–$1,800 | Mature loblolly pine, established live oak |
| Very large trees (over 80 ft) | $1,500–$4,000+ | Often requires a crane and a larger crew |
Very large removals often require a crane, which is the single biggest jump in price.
What affects the price
- Species and root complexity — live oaks spread wide, loblolly pines run tall and brittle
- Proximity to the house, driveway, septic field, or power lines
- Accessibility — can a bucket truck or crane reach it, or must it be climbed and lowered by rope?
- Standing vs. already fallen, and whether a fallen tree is under tension
- Condition — leaning, rotted, or storm-damaged trees need slower, costlier rigging
What's usually NOT included
- Stump grinding — typically $75–$400 extra, and rarely bundled by default
- Debris haul-away; some crews chip on site and leave the pile
- Permit fees of roughly $50–$200 in towns that regulate removals
- Emergency and post-storm response premiums, often 25–50% above a scheduled job
- Topsoil, seed, or landscape repair after heavy equipment crosses the yard
How to get a fair price
- Get two written estimates — verbal numbers drift once the saws start
- Confirm licensing and current liability plus workers' comp insurance, in writing
- Ask explicitly whether the quote includes full cleanup, chips, and stump
- Be wary of unusually low door-knocker quotes after a storm
- Never pay the full amount up front; a reasonable deposit is normal, prepayment isn't
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a small tree vs. a large tree?+
A small tree under 30 feet usually runs $150–$450, while a large 60–80 foot pine or oak is more often $800–$1,800. Height isn't the only factor — trunk diameter, canopy spread, and how much rigging the crew needs all push the number up.
Does removing a fallen tree cost more or less than a standing one?+
Usually less, because no climbing or crane work is needed — but not always. A tree tangled in a roof, fence, or power line takes careful sectioning and can cost more than simply felling it would have.
How much extra does stump grinding cost?+
Typically $75–$400 depending on stump diameter and root flare. It is almost never included in a removal quote by default, so ask whether grinding, chip removal, and topsoil fill are part of the price.
Why is emergency tree removal more expensive?+
After-hours and post-storm work often runs 25–50% higher. Crews are paid overtime, equipment access is worse, and the work is riskier — cutting a loaded, tensioned tree off a structure is not the same job as a scheduled removal.
Do I need a permit, and does that add to the cost?+
Some Brunswick County towns and most HOAs regulate removal of specimen or setback trees. Where a permit applies, expect roughly $50–$200. Check with your town planning office before scheduling — retroactive fines cost far more.
Prices are general estimates based on typical regional ranges and can vary by contractor, season, and site conditions. Always get written quotes from licensed, insured local arborists for an exact price.
Not sure what your tree removal should cost?
Send us a description or photo — we'll give honest guidance before you call a contractor.