Who Should I Call for Tree Branch Removal?

A licensed tree removal or tree trimming company can safely remove branches

worker cutting tree
Photo: Oliver Rossi / Stone/ Getty Images
worker cutting tree
Photo: Oliver Rossi / Stone/ Getty Images
Highlights
  • Tree branch removal is safest with a licensed and insured tree removal or pruning service.

  • Most spend $200 to $2,000 or more for tree removal or $400 to $800 for pruning; trimming averages $460, ranging $75 to $1,800.

  • Costs vary by tree size, number of branches, location, equipment needs, permits, and cleanup.

  • Emergency, 24-hour services handle storm hazards—get at least three quotes to compare scope and pricing.

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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are considering who to call for tree branch removal, hire a licensed, insured, and bonded tree removal or tree pruning service. For unsafe storm damage, use an emergency, 24-hour tree service. Use this pro hiring guide to verify qualifications and align on permits, equipment, schedule, and cleanup before work begins.

Benefits of Hiring a Tree Removal Specialist for Tree Branch Removal

Hiring a local, top-rated tree removal specialist ensures safe branch removal and long-term tree health. Licensed, insured, and bonded pros manage permits, protect your property, and keep tree structure a priority. When storms cause fallen or uprooted trees, emergency services handle immediate hazards safely and efficiently.

Here are the benefits of hiring a tree removal specialist:

  • Secures required permits quickly

  • Understands species-specific pruning needs

  • Safely removes dead or diseased limbs

  • Shapes trees to support healthy growth

  • Prioritizes overall structural integrity

  • Prevents damage to homes and property

  • Protects pedestrians and avoids power line hazards

  • Provides 24/7 emergency service for storm damage

  • Carries proper licensing, insurance, and bonding

  • Brings specialized tools and trained crew

If you have a large tree or hazardous situation, hire a tree removal pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Can I Hire a Local Tree Trimming Company for Tree Branch Removal?

Local tree trimming companies work similarly to removal specialists and bring the right knowledge, tools, and supplies. The average tree trimming cost is $460, with a $75 to $2,000 range depending on tree type and size.

For hazardous storm situations, hire an emergency, 24-hour service instead, as availability and pricing may differ for urgent work. These professionals often have a better understanding of how to manage urgent or hazardous tree damage. Regardless of who you hire, make sure to get detailed quotes and to clarify their years and type of experience, whether you need permits, expect project timelines, if cleanup is included, and other important details.

How Do Tree Removal Specialists Remove Tree Branches?

Tree removal pros remove dead, diseased, or competing branches to improve safety and tree health. They use proper gear, careful staging, and multi-cut techniques that protect bark and encourage clean healing cuts. Here's how they work:

  1. Gather safety gear and tools: pruning shears, loppers, handsaw, pole saw.

  2. Stage access; use a crane or bucket truck if needed; otherwise use solid ground or a ladder with a spotter.

  3. Find the branch collar; mark three cut points to prevent bark tearing.

  4. Undercut halfway at the first mark.

  5. Complete the top cut at the second mark and let the limb fall slowly.

  6. Make the final cut at the branch collar to leave a clean nub for proper healing.

  7. If no collar, identify the bark ridge, mark a straight and 45-degree line, then cut.

  8. Use hand pruners for small limbs; loppers for branches over one inch.

How Much Does Tree Branch Removal Cost?

Tree removal runs $200 to $5,000 or more, depending on size and complexity. Tree pruning usually costs $400 to $800 and focuses on tree health and safety. Tree trimming averages $460, with a $75 to $1,800 range, and is concerned with tree appearance and tidiness. Pricing varies by tree size, number of branches, location, emergency needs, equipment, permits, and cleanup. Get at least three quotes to compare scope and inclusions.

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