Tree Service Frequently Asked Questions

Tree Permits, Removal and Concerns.

Many of our customers want to understand if they need a permit to remove a tree. The answer varies by locality and even by neighborhoods. Some localities will require a permit to remove trees based on tree species. Other restrictions for cutting down a tree can be your Homeowners Association (HOA). They may have a covenant on what can be done in the exterior of the home and they would first need to give you permission or a homeowner may face a fine and even find themselves in court. Here is an example of permits needed for tree removal in Washington DC.


Another factor to consider are utilities that may be in the vicinity of the tree that needs removal. This is especially dangerous in many cases because it can cause disruptions to you and surrounding neighbors.


If you only need pruning, we can mulch the branches so you can use for your gardening needs.


Other customers worry about damage that may occur during the tree cutting process and will they be covered. Don't worry, we carry an insurance policy that will cover any damages caused by us.


We understand the permits and regulations for cutting down and removing your trees so you don't have to worry about it. Let us take that burden and risk by performing everything necessary for your tree removal.


How to choose a tree service company?

Selecting the right tree service can be daunting, here are some questions you can ask as you seek to find the most qualified company. We really want to make an emphasis that you select the most qualified for this job. Below are some questions you can ask a tree service business in your decision making.


  • Are they licensed and insured AND does their insurance specifically cover trees. If it doesn't and they damage any property they may not be able to pay for the damages, leaving you with a bill and the headache of potential litigation. Some landscaping companies offer tree cutting as a service but they are not covered if they leave the ground over a certain amount of feet.


  • Do they have workman's compensation insurance? If not you could be liable for an injury that occurs on your property.


  • Ask if they are arborists or simply tree cutters, anyone can cut a tree but maybe it doesn't need that. Our arborists will be able to explain other options and potentially save you money. When pruning, do they understand what's best for the tree, trees are an expensive investment and bad pruning can permanently damage them.


  • Ask if they are certified to go underground for stump removal, we are landscape licensed and certified and are legally allowed to go underground. We are also EHAP (Electrical Hazards Awareness Program) certified.


Unfortunately, many tree services out there are in the business of cutting trees in an unsafe manner and with little training. We hear it all the time and we are called in to fix those nightmare situations. Get it done right the first time, going with the cheapest in this scenario may cost you more than you think, go for a qualified tree service even if it's not us.


Ask the tree service for a Certificate of Insurance to verify that you are covered and no liability is passed on to you.

How much does tree removal cost?

Tree removal costs vary greatly and a site inspection will absolutely be needed. This is to provide fair pricing to the customer and to be able to do it in the safest manner possible. If you are told a price over the phone without inspecting the site, run away! That is a recipe for disaster.

Things to consider when calculating cost of tree removal:

  • Size and location of tree
  • Hazards (can make the process longer)
  • Time of day, if emergency service is requested
  • Tree disposal or leave neatly stacked on site
  • Stump removal and how deep are the roots
  • Is the tree dead or alive
  • Crew size and equipment that will be needed to safely remove the tree

Of course prior to us starting the initial site visit would allow us to detail our plan and what steps would be needed to prepare for the day of removal. We keep you informed along the way if anything unexpected comes up during the process.

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