Guide to Tree Removal Service Costs & Estimates in Canada

The average tree removal cost a homeowner can expect to pay is anywhere between $100 and $1995. The average cost is around $860. The price you will end up paying is determined by four main factors: the size (height) of the tree, its condition, diameter and location (accessibility).

It is common for tree removal companies to charge a fee based on height, usually per foot. Most tree removal services will use the following ranges as guidelines to calculate prices. In general, small tree are about 30’ tall or less. Medium trees stand between 30’ and 60’. Large trees stand 60’ to 80’ tall. Very tall trees are 80’ or even taller.

The cost of removing a tree can be impacted by the condition of the tree. Trees that appear to be in dangerous conditions are often inspected by an arborist. An arborist will be able to determine how the tree should be cut down. Additional factors that can affect the condition of a tree include:

Dead trees can be unpredictable when it comes to assessing the cost of tree removal. Small dead trees are typically easier to work on as they are generally weak and brittle making them easier to cut. Large dead trees pose a bit more difficulty, as being weak and brittle makes them more dangerous to work on. Be aware of the trees around your property if you live in an urban environment. If one falls over, the owner can be faced with charges of neglect.

Depending on the company, some tree removal services do not consider dead trees different from living when it comes to removal. However, due to the unpredictability of dead trees, you can safely assume that it will cost a bit more to remove it. Ultimately, the cost will come down to how comfortable the tree removal service is dealing with dead trees.

The thicker your tree is, the more it will take to remove it. A tall, relatively thin tree will come down faster than a shorter, thicker tree. The diameter of the tree will have a direct impact on the per-hour price you pay. Should the trunk need to be cut into sections (and it’s likely it will), that will add that much more time to the job. Keep in mind that harder wood, such as oak, will also take more time to cut through.

The location of the tree can affect the price of removal by 25% to 50%. Trees that are easily accessible will cost less to remove than those that are close to powerlines and homes. Be aware that many places require that a certified lineman handle anything dealing with the power lines. These employees get paid more than the others which will affect your overall cost.

Another factor that will affect the cost is how easily the workers can get to your tree. If the tree is in your front yard for example, there is rarely an issue. If the tree is in your backyard, things may be trickier. Also, if they’re providing a chipping service, it will cost more if the branches have to be dragged any distance to the chipper.

The height and accessibility of the tree can affect the cost of removal. Other factors that can affect the price include certain species and whether or not the tree has fallen.

The average removal cost of a small tree is between $165 to $578, as small trees are about 30 feet in height. It’s a good precaution to call the utility company to see if there are any plumbing lines or electricity concerns before you have the tree removed.

The average cost to remove a medium tree is $231 to $1000+ and varies by height, which could range anywhere from 30 to 60 feet. When you speak to the company, ask if they charge per tree or per hour, as this could widely vary the quotes you receive. You will also have to pay for additional expenses like removing the stump, getting rid of any debris and cleanup.

The average cost to remove a large tree is approximately $529 to $1300, since tree height ranges from 60 to 80 feet tall and will require more work. Removing large trees is very dangerous and takes time.

The average price to remove a very large tree is around $1200 to $1800. This is because very large trees can be 80 to 100 feet tall or more. They are the most complicated to remove due to factors such as:

Some species of trees can reach over 100 feet tall and are the hardest to remove. If you have very tall trees, it’s going to be quite expensive to remove them because of the work involved.

The average price to remove a pine tree is about $264 if the tree is under 40 feet tall. 80-foot pine trees will cost about $1900 because of the work and potential danger involved. Depending on the breed of pine tree you have, there could be additional work involved with removing the branches and cones. Professionals will have to wear safety gear to avoid injury.

The average cost to remove a 60 foot oak tree is approximately $264 to $1300. Oak is a very strong wood and is not easy to take down compared to other tree types. Factoring in its strength and girth, professionals will use heavy-duty equipment to fell the tree. The final cost depends on the species of oak you have and how tall it is.

The average price to remove a fallen tree is about $99 to $198 depending on the size and species of the tree. Fallen trees are less expensive to remove because most of the work is already done. You might pay additional costs to have the pieces hauled away. If the tree needs to be pruned, you will need to pay for that service as well. If you want to have the stump removed where the tree broke off, that will cost an additional $90 to $190, depending on its girth and whether you have it grinded or completely removed.

When you hire a tree removal service, be sure you know exactly what is included. For example, hauling away the tree after it is cut down is often an extra charge. Stump removal is another job that will be an extra charge. Here are some of the extras and a general idea of what they cost:

If you have had a recent bad storm in your area, whether a very strong wind or rain storm, it’s a good idea to have your trees inspected. A formerly safe tree may have suffered some damage or may now be in a condition where falling is a possibility. The worst time to pay for tree cutters is after the fact!