How Tree Size Impacts Removal Price Across the UK

Understanding why a small ornamental tree may cost a few hundred pounds to remove while a mature oak can run into the thousands begins with one variable: size. As trees get taller and broader, the job typically demands more labour hours, specialised rigging, and in some cases cranes or mobile elevating work platforms. Those practical realities drive most price differences across the UK, with regional factors and regulations adding another layer.

Tree Removal Costs: A Detailed Price Guide

For small trees up to roughly 8–10 metres, straightforward felling in an open garden commonly sits in the low hundreds, while the same tree over garages, greenhouses, or power lines often needs sectional dismantling, pushing costs higher. Medium trees around 10–18 metres usually require more complex rigging, traffic management if near roads, and larger chipper capacity. Once trees exceed 18 metres, crews may bring in cranes or MEWPs to manage weight and reach, and overall risk increases, which is reflected in the price. Waste removal, stump grinding, and VAT also shape the final figure.

Key Factors Driving Tree Removal Expenses

Beyond height and spread, arborists consider trunk diameter, wood density (hardwoods like oak or beech are heavier), canopy complexity, defects (e.g., decay), wildlife constraints, and site access. Tight access that limits chipper placement or necessitates manual carrying increases time. Proximity to buildings, conservatories, or public highways adds rigging, protection, and sometimes permits. Legal constraints matter too: Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Areas require consent before works proceed, which can delay schedules. Certified teams working to BS3998 with NPTC-qualified climbers, proper LOLER-inspected kit, and waste carrier compliance all contribute to professional rates.

Tree Removal Price Ranges by Tree Size

While every site is different, useful bands emerge. A small garden tree (≤10 m) might be £300–£600 for simple felling and removal, rising to £500–£900 where sectional dismantling and careful lowering are needed. Medium trees (10–18 m) often range £700–£1,200 for straightforward jobs, extending to £1,500+ with complex rigging or restricted access. Large trees (18 m+) frequently land between £1,200 and £2,500+, with very large specimens or crane-assisted removals reaching £3,000–£5,000+. Stump grinding for small stumps can be £80–£150, with larger diameters at £200–£450+. Urban centres, especially inner London, can be 10–25% higher due to labour, parking, and traffic management.

Understanding Tree Removal Rates and Service Options

Quotes are typically structured by scope: fell only; fell and remove arisings; fell, remove, and grind stump; or sectional dismantling. Dismantling over buildings adds cost because it’s slower and gear-intensive. Hiring a MEWP can add several hundred pounds per day, while crane-assisted work is priced case by case. If a tree can be straight-felled into a clear drop zone, costs fall sharply. Ask what is included: waste disposal, log stacking, site tidy, and whether VAT is applicable. Checking public liability insurance levels and professional memberships can help you compare rates from local services in your area on a like-for-like basis.

The ranges below reflect published UK cost guides from recognisable platforms and illustrate how size and method affect estimates. Specific providers will quote after a site visit, factoring in your tree’s measurements and access.

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Comparing Local Tree Removal Service Quotes

When you gather quotes from local services, supply the same details to each firm: estimated height, trunk diameter at chest height, photos from multiple angles, access width to the garden, nearby structures, and whether you want all waste removed or logs left on site. Ask whether the method is straight fell or sectional dismantle, if a MEWP or crane is anticipated, how many crew will attend, and the expected duration. Clarify whether stump grinding is included and confirm disposal methods. In conservation areas or with TPOs, request confirmation that the contractor will handle notifications and permissions. Comparing this information side by side helps distinguish lower-priced but incomplete scopes from comprehensive, compliant quotes.

In practice, tree size sets the baseline for difficulty, but the site tells the full story. Two trees of similar height can be priced very differently if one stands in open lawn and the other leans over a glass conservatory. Use the size-based ranges as a starting framework, then weigh method, access, and regulatory context to understand why your quotes differ. That way, you can choose a solution that balances safety, environmental care, and value without surprises.