With winter around the corner, many people wonder what is the average Pine tree removal cost?
While pines are excellent landscaping trees, helping filter the air and adding aesthetics, they can sometimes become a hindrance to power lines and other buildings when cold weather sets in.
Tree removal companies charge a fee for tree removal services and additional services like log splitting, mulching or removing debris.
While estimating the exact cost of removing a Pine tree from your property is impossible, the average price is around $1,377, which depends on a number of factors.1
However, there are ways to reduce this amount, and although you might not qualify for a free tree removal opportunity, you can reduce the costs by taking on some of the work yourself.
Factors That Determine the Pine Tree Removal Cost
Here are some of the factors that determine the average pine tree removal cost:
Geographical Location
People living in rural areas are likely to pay extra travel expenses.
This is if the tree removal company near them is in a far-off urban center.
Be sure to search for a tree removal company near you to cut on this expense. The tree removal cost also varies with the state.
Some states may charge higher than others. Here are tree removal estimates based on some of the states:4
| States | Tree Removal Cost |
| Washington | $550 – $800 |
| New York | $750 – $1,100 |
| California | $650 – $1,300 |
| Illinois | $535 – $730 |
| Maine | $515 – $700 |
| Texas | $300 – $850 |
| Florida | $750 -$1,500 |
The Tree Size
The size of the trunk also influences the cost of Pine tree removal.
Small trees are easier to remove, as they have less root structure, are less complex, and require less equipment.
How Much Does It Cost To Cut Down Pine Tree?
You can use a tree removal cost calculator to calculate the Pine Tree Removal Cost. The following table gives a rough estimate:
| Size | Tree Removal Cost |
| 20 ft | $200 – $300 |
| 30 ft | $240 – $450 |
| 40 ft | $420 – $700 |
| 50 ft | $500 – $1,000 |
| 60-80 ft | $800 – $1,500 |
| 80-100 ft | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Health Condition of the Pine Tree
One interesting thing about cutting down trees is that the cost of bringing down healthy ones is different from that of unhealthy ones. For example, the tree-cutting prices for diseased or infected pines are higher.
The truth is unhealthy or rotting trees are faster to cut than their healthier counterparts. Also, since they are hollow, they are significantly lighter than the healthy ones.
However, cutting down a tree in poor condition requires extra care.
First, an arborist may be required to assess the tree’s situation.10 This might cost approximately $50 to $1,000.
The process involves inspecting the tree and determining how to cut it. For example, a tree may slightly be leaning dangerously toward the properties.
If it is a slight lean, it may be an indication of a root issue. If this is, however, combined with cracked ground and exposed roots, it indicates a severe stability issue.
With unhealthy trees, weak branches may fall while being cut, which is hazardous. Ladders and lifts may also be necessary as climbing the tree may be risky.
Tree ailments and infections, including decay and cavities, can also compromise the structural foundation of structures around it. This can increase the removal cost as it may have weak spots that compromise the removal process.
As such, they cost more to cut. For instance, cutting a medium-sized tree in poor health costs around $400 and $900.
Accessibility
Another issue that may affect the tree removal cost is accessibility. How easy is it to access the Pine tree?
Hard-to-access trees can cost 25% to 50% more. Is it growing too close to your home or other properties?
The closer it is, the harder the removal process becomes. As such, the contractor must carefully lower the large branches by rope first.
This helps to prevent damage to nearby structures or houses. In such scenarios, contractors charge you more than for tree removal in open spaces.
If your tree is closer to a power line, the cost might become even more. Why?
A utility company must get involved if the trees are too close to power lines to prevent serious damage.11
Diameter or Trunk Size
The tree’s diameter is also a major determining factor of the tree removal cost. How do you measure the diameter?
Measure the chest size of the tree, which is about 4.5 feet from the ground.
Thicker tree trunks cost more than the skinny. Unlike the skinny trees, it takes longer to cut a thicker tree and split the logs into pieces.
Types of Pine Trees
Yet another factor determining the cost of tree removal is the Pine tree type. A Pine tree includes any Coniferous tree or shrub falling under the Pinus genus.12
Pine also consists of the lumber from a Pine tree.
There are over 187 Pine tree species.5 All pines are native to the Northern Hemisphere except for a few, like the Sumatran and Merkus Pine species.
Pine trees grow in different USDA growing zones. For example, the most common Pine tree in Arizona is the Pinyon Pine tree, although the Limber and Ponderosa are also prominent.
On the other hand, the types of Pine trees in Connecticut are the Red, Pitch, and Eastern White Pines.
Pine Trees Features
Pines are drought-tolerant trees with different features, including cones, barks, and needles. These features affect the process of cutting and removing a pine.
The foliage and the leaves may grow too big, hindering the process. The number of needles in each bunch differs.
For example, White Pines have five needles in each bunch, whereas the Red Pines have two needles in each bunch. They also vary depending on the length and types of needles.
Some have soft needles, and others have sharp needles. For example, the Loblolly Pine has three hard needles, whereas the Bristlecone Pine has five soft needles.
Red Pine has two needles, 1 to 2 inches wide and 2 inches long, whereas the Austrian Pine has two needles, 1 inch wide and 2 to 3 inches long. Barks also differ in color; and some have a hard bark, while others have a soft one.
Hard Pines like the Scotch, Loblolly, or Corsican are considered to have relatively hard timber. Scots Pines have red, cracked bark, and the Sugar Pines have Cinnamon-colored furrowed bark.
The Pine trees have cones with different colors. The Himalayan Blue Pine tree has brown cones, whereas the Scots Pine tree, famously used for Christmas decorations, has red cones when fertile and brown when mature.
How To Negotiate Tree Removal Costs
You can negotiate the tree removal cost with the company you have found. First, research if the company is giving discounts.
(Image: MabelAmber16)
During winter, most companies give up to 10% discount for tree felling. Negotiate with the contractor in the beginning before signing the contract.
Indicate all the services you want included in the contract and agree on the cost of each additional service. This gets you and the tree removal company on the same page.
What Does a Contractor Include in a Pine Tree Removal Cost?
The Pine Tree Removal Cost depends on the company and the situation surrounding the removal process. To bring down a tree, the contractor includes other expenses, including the following:3
Stump Removal
Besides being ugly and inconvenient, a tree stump can be hazardous if left unattended in your yard. This may bring additional work in the future.
Removing tree stumps is a nerve-wracking and tedious activity. More often, it is more complex than cutting down a tree.
You must invest considerable time, equipment, and resources to work on it. Stump grinding is the most common tree stump removal method.
However, this requires you to have unique equipment. Tree removal companies offer stump removal as a separate service at an extra fee because of the work involved.
The tree stump removal work depends on trunk diameter and its condition. When it is rotting, it is usually easier to remove and thus cheaper.
Typically, it costs between $80 to $473 for trunk removal for a tree between 25 and 50 feet tall. The extra giant trees with vast diameters cost over $900.
Tree Trunk Removal
Removing the fallen trunk from your property also costs money. At the very least, tree removal companies may offer to cut the trunk into smaller, more manageable pieces.
However, you must dig into your pockets more to cater for their removal. The cost for that extra activity ranges between $50 and $100.
Log Splitting
Wood from your felled Pine tree is an ideal source of winter logs and firewood. However, you’ll need to engage a log splitter to get it into usable sizes.
(Image: paulbr7514)
You may engage the same company if it offers that service or contract a different one for log-splitting services alone. Log splitting is an activity that can cost you an additional $35 to $100 based on wood pieces.9
This will add to the total of the Pine tree removal cost.
Travel Expenses
Depending on where you live, you may have to factor in the travel expenses in the final tree removal bill. If you reside in rural areas, the tree removal company charges you the money they use to get to where you are.
They may charge the drive time per mile if the distance is significantly far.
Limb Chipping
You can decide to go green by having the limb chipped. Wood chipping turns limb wastes into usable and environmentally friendly mulch.
Wood chipping requires specialized equipment. If the tree removal company cutting down the tree has it, you can negotiate the fee.
However, if they don’t, you may have to contact a wood chipper, which can cost about $75. Depending on the limbs you want chipped, wood chipping costs between $50 and $100.
Other Types of Pine Tree Costs
In addition to the factors determining pine tree removal cost, there are other Pine tree-related expenses.
These costs cover various aspects of pine tree care and maintenance.
Labor Costs
The labor cost for removing a Pine tree can be per tree or hourly. Cutting down a small tree in an open space without cleanup can take 15 minutes to an hour.
However, bringing down a 30-foot-tall tree can take 2 to 4 hours, including cutting limbs and cleaning. Giant trees take up to a day or a few days to cut and remove.
Depending on the tree size, the contractor may also charge a flat rate, which ranges between $200 and $3,000. The average cost per foot ranges between $5 and $25.6
Some trees require heavy equipment. Therefore, crane-assisted tree removal cost per day can go higher, ranging between $500 and $2,500 due to added fuel, transportation, insurance expenses, and operator.
Additional services like stump removal and log splitting will also be charged separately. Therefore, considering all these when estimating the total labor cost per day is crucial.
Tree Trimming Costs
Pine tree trimming is an essential activity as it helps remove overgrown and dead branches. This helps improve the trees’ health and boosts the property’s curb appeal.
The tree size will affect the cost of trimming. Taller and larger trees have more branches than short and dwarf ones.
Therefore, they need more to prune. Trimming a tree that is 30 feet tall or less typically costs between $75 and $450.
Medium-sized trees cost around $150 and $875. Thoroughly trimming tall trees falls anywhere between $200 and $1,000.
Cleanup Costs
Some homeowners prefer to remove the debris, but others pay for it to be disposed of. A homeowner may decide to keep the chopped tree for firewood.
(Image: 398864417)
Many cleanup services charge between $50 and $100 for tree debris removal.
Permit Expenses
In most states, to get a pine tree removed from your property, you do not need a permit. However, in some states, it is needed.
For example, in Georgia, you need permission to uproot a 12-inch diameter tree. In Maryland, you must replace the cut tree using a new pine seedling.
The permit fee for tree removal can range between $75 and $450, depending on the geographical location.
Does the Insurance Cover the Pine Tree Removal Cost?
This depends on the particulars of your insurance agency. The policy may cover standing trees for damage from natural and other perils such as fire,13 windstorms, lightning, sleet, snow, and falling objects.
The coverage also depends on the tree status. If the tree is healthy and poses no danger to you, then the insurance does not cover its removal.
Transplanting Costs
Some homeowners want to preserve a tree but have it transplanted with a crane from one location to another. This is an expensive exercise, especially if it is a giant tree.
Depending on the tree size, it can cost between $400 to $ 5,000.
Emergency Tree Removal
Some trees need urgent removal services. These trees have fallen or are leaning due to storms.
Emergency tree removal costs more than usual. Some go as high as $5,000.7
(Image: Antranias18)
The insurance coverage varies based on the tree’s health, a healthy tree that poses no threat is typically not covered for removal. This can influence the overall Pine tree removal cost.
Free Tree Removal: Who Can Remove Pine Trees for Free?
In some scenarios, you may be lucky to have a tree removed for free.
Utility Companies
The utility companies may remove or trim the Pine tree for free if it is located near utility or service lines.
If the tree interferes with the power lines, they may get the tree removed or trimmed.
This is particularly true if it is a potential hazard or the branches touch the lines; sparking and arcing can cause a fire. Therefore, the power company is likely to act on it.
If you have a tree touching or too close to the power lines, it is advisable not to remove or prune it.
The utility company can send a team of experts to prevent hazards.
Lumbar Companies
Lumbar companies will likely offer free tree removal in exchange for wood or timber.8 The timber may only cater to part of the removal total.
But if you have a large plantation of Pine trees, contact lumber companies around and ask them if they are willing to cut the trees. Get them to exchange the timber with a free removal service.
Free Tree Removal for Seniors
The federal government provides grants and assistance program for free tree removal for seniors. Excellent examples of these programs include Harold. K. L. Castle Foundation in Hawaii and California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
They offer hazardous-free tree removal programs to remove trees that pose a danger or to reduce the threat of wildfire.
Also, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and local community foundations may offer these services. Perfect examples include the Area Agency on Aging Offices (AAAO) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Homeowners and Neighbors in Need of Firewood
Ask around in your neighborhood if anyone is willing to exchange the free removal service for firewood. If you get someone, it is perfectly fine to jump in on the idea.
That is an opportunity to have the tree removed or trimmed for free. The person can agree to pay the cost if they hire a company to do the job since they want the firewood.
This is a possible scenario in most rural areas where people use firewood to heat their homes.
Pine Tree Services: Pine Tree Removal Companies Near Me
If you cannot find free services or cannot DIY, find tree removal companies near you.
Check their qualifications, experience, and reviews to confirm they are legitimate and reliable.
(Image: RogerJackson15)
Get at least three estimates from cost-effective tree services to get an easy and affordable Pine tree removal company.
When Can You Remove a Tree Yourself?
A large or medium-sized tree needs a pro to cut and remove. However, you can remove a small tree if:2
- The tree is 10 feet tall or under
- The tree is in an accessible area, and there is sufficient space for the tree to fall safely without touching buildings, windows, or power lines
- You have the right tools and safety gear
- You have someone nearby to help
- There is an escape route where you can quickly rush to when the tree is falling
- You can dispose of the tree properly
- You can take care of the tree stump and also clean up after cutting the tree
Cutting Down a Pine Tree: The DIY Process
If you decide to DIY, follow the steps below to remove pine trees successfully:
- Estimate the height of the tree. Survey to determine that the tree will not fall and ruin any property or nearby structure in the surrounding.
- Wear protective gear, including gloves, hard hats, ear protection, and goggles.
- To reduce the pine sap amount that sticks to the chainsaw blade, dampen it with water.
- Use the chainsaw to cut the tree at a waist height. The cut should go about halfway into the tree.
- At a 45-degree angle, make a notch by cutting down toward the center of the tree and hitting the first cut.
- Make a single straight cut in the opposite direction just above the notch. After that cut, the tree begins to fall toward the notch.
- Get off from the area a few meters when it is falling so that it does hit you.
- Split it and move the pieces to a safe, well-arranged area.
- Clean up the area to remove pieces, needles, cones, or anything left behind and dispose of them.
To ensure safety and preserve your property’s aesthetics, it’s wise to factor in the Pine tree removal cost when considering professional tree removal services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pine Tree Removal Cost
Can You Grow a Pine From a Cone?
Growing a Pine tree directly from a pine cone is not possible. To grow a Pine tree, you need to extract the seeds from the cone and sow them, starting in a tray until the seedlings are mature enough for transplanting.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove a Tree?
Tree removal is complex, with costs varying based on aspects like size, height, type, location, and accessibility. While removing mature Oak trees might range from $700 to $1,300, Pine tree removal can cost between $250 and $3,000, contingent upon its type and size.
How Much Is a Pine Tree?
Valuing a single Pine tree, especially in a backyard, is difficult, but lumbar companies can more easily estimate the worth of trees in an acre plantation. With pine timber valued at less than ten cents per board foot, a mature tree’s estimate might be around $30, making large plantations potentially valuable.
What Is the Average Cost To Cut Down a 30-Foot Tree?
A tree up to 30 feet in height typically costs between $200 to $400 for removal. Meanwhile, medium-sized trees ranging from 30 to 50 feet can cost anywhere from $420 to $1200, including cleanup and stump removal.
How Much To Cut Down a 50-Foot Pine Tree?
Large trees that grow up to 60 or 80 feet tall are complex and need heavier equipment to remove. The average cost of removing these trees is between $890 and $1,780.
How Much Does It Cost To Cut Down a 100-ft Tree?
The primary factor determining the cost of tree removal is its size, with extra-large trees over 100 feet requiring more resources, time, and heavier equipment. Trees exceeding 80 feet in height can cost up to $2,000 for removal
Learn More About Pine Tree Removal Cost
Free Tree Removal for Seniors Backed by the Government in 2023
Free Tree Removal Programs Used by Actual Logging Companies
Free Tree Removal in Exchange for Wood in Just 7 Steps (Guide)
How to Negotiate Tree Removal (This 1 Trick Works Every Time)
Tree Removal Cost Calculator for Every Tree Type & Discount Trick
How Much to Cut Down a 50 Foot Pine Tree: 2022 Pine Tree Removal Costs
References
1McInerney, B. (2023). How much does it cost to remove a pine tree? Go Tree Quotes. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://www.gotreequotes.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-remove-a-pine-tree/>
2Greenberg, E. (2023). How much does tree removal cost? [2023 Data]. Angi. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-tree-removal-cost.htm>
3Richard’s Tree Service. (n.d.). How much does it cost to cut down a tree | Tree Removal. Richard’s Tree Service. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://richardstreeservice.com/about/resources/tree-removal-costs.php>
4Greenhalgh, B., & Auer, E. (2023). How much does it cost to remove a tree? Bob Vila. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-remove-a-tree/>
5Pissarro, C. (2023, October 18). Pine. Wikipedia. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pine>
6Noel, S. (2023). 2023 Tree removal costs — prices to cut down a tree by size. HomeGuide. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://homeguide.com/costs/tree-removal-cost>
7Koncewicz, S. (2023). How much does tree removal cost? (2023 Guide). This Old House. Retrieved October 5, 2023, from <https://www.thisoldhouse.com/gardening/reviews/average-cost-of-tree-removal>
8Luy, J. A., Sexton, W. E., & Whalin, R. W. (1968, August). Lumbar and Related Products. ERIC Institute of Education Sciences. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED031558.pdf>
9Martin Luther College. (2023, September 21). Log-splitting. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://mlc-wels.edu/student-employment/job/log-splitting/>
10University of Minnesota. (2023). How to hire a tree care professional. University of Minnesota. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional>
11Western Area Power Administration. (2020, February 26). Trees and Power Lines. Western Area Power Administration. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://www.wapa.gov/newsroom/factsheets/pages/trees-powerlines.aspx>
12Kluepfel, M., & Polomski, R. F. (2020, June 19). Pine. Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/pine/>
13Henderson, J. E., & Garnett, L. W. (2018). Risk Management Options for Family Forests: Timber Insurance. Mississippi State University Extension. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from <https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publications/p2911.pdf>
14Photos by paulbr75. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/firewood-tree-log-resource-woodpile-3038889/>
15Photos by RogerJackson. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/loggers-chainsaw-forest-work-1319670/>
16Photos by MabelAmber. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/conifer-pine-pine-tree-evergreen-3264803/>
17Photos by 3988644. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/wood-cut-wood-nature-floor-trunk-3411809/>
18Photos by Antranias. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/storm-storm-damage-trees-forest-840962/>