Pricing & Process
No two trees are the same job. Here is what shapes the scope of a tree service proposal, how we inspect, and what you will see in writing.
The short answer
The cost of tree work comes down to how much skill, equipment, time, and risk the job takes. A tree in an open yard with easy access is a different job than the same tree over a roof, next to power lines, or behind a locked gate. We do not publish rates because we cannot responsibly price a tree we have not seen. We inspect first, then give you a written, itemized proposal.
The main drivers
Height, trunk diameter, canopy spread, and species affect how much material comes down and how it behaves while it is being worked. Some species have brittle wood, heavy limbs, or decay patterns that change the plan.
Explore this serviceOpen lawn, a fenced backyard with a narrow gate, a steep slope, or a tree that equipment cannot reach all change the method and the time. Access often decides whether we use a bucket truck, a crane, or climbers.
Explore this serviceA tree over a house, deck, or pool needs a different approach than a tree in the middle of a field. Protecting what is around the tree takes planning and time.
Explore this serviceWork near power lines may require coordination with the utility and specific safety procedures. This can change the schedule and the method.
Explore this serviceSome trees can be dropped in sections. Others must be lowered piece by piece with ropes and pulleys to protect the property. Larger or more complex jobs may need a crane.
Explore this serviceChips, logs, and debris have to go somewhere. Whether you want wood left, chips left, or everything hauled away affects the scope.
Explore this serviceSome jurisdictions require a permit to remove certain trees. Storm damage, emergency response, and after hours work are scoped differently than planned work.
Explore this serviceStump grinding, preventative care, and pruning each have their own drivers. See the sections below.
Site conditions
These examples show how site conditions change a job. They are not a quote.
Other services
Scope depends on the number of trees, how much needs to come out, the height of the work, and whether the goal is health, clearance, structure, or views. Pruning done to ISA standards takes planning and skill, which is why scope varies.
View service detailsStump diameter, root flare, access for the grinder, and how deep you want the grind all shape the job. We also confirm what is underground before grinding.
View service detailsOngoing care is scoped to the trees, the species, and the issues we find during inspection. A written plan explains what we recommend and why.
View service detailsStorm damage and hazard situations are scoped on arrival. The first priority is safety. We stabilize the situation, then discuss next steps.
View service detailsOur process
Photos help us prepare, but they cannot show us what an inspection does. Decay, lean, root conditions, hidden defects, overhead hazards, and access problems often cannot be seen from a picture. A certified arborist walks the property, looks at the tree and the site, and talks with you about what you want. Then we write the proposal.
For property managers and HOA boards
If you manage multiple sites or a community, scope and timing matter even more. We help with budgeting, prioritizing trees by condition, and scheduling work to fit your fiscal year. Our commercial budgeting guide walks through how to plan.
Get the Commercial Budgeting GuideWritten documentation helps your team review the scope, plan the work, and keep a clear property record.
Project scoper
Answer a few quick questions and we will send your details to a tree specialist so the inspection starts informed. This tool does not give a price. Pricing comes from the inspection.
Compare scope
If you are collecting more than one proposal, compare the scope, not just the total. Here are questions worth asking every company.
We are glad to answer these questions about our own proposals.
Have a question we didn't cover? See all tree care FAQs
Book an inspection and you will leave with a clear, written scope.
