There are many reasons why you might need to hire a professional for tree removal:

• Disease

• Storm damage

• Roots causing problems

• A tree overpowering your garden

Read on to discover how much your tree removal project might cost and how to find a trusted tree surgeon near you.

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How much does it cost to remove a tree in the UK 2026?

As you can see from our cost table, tree removal prices can vary hugely:

• The average tree removal cost in the UK is around £1,190–£1,720 for a tree up to 50 feet when carried out by a qualified tree surgeon

• Meanwhile, you'll be looking at paying £240–£340 to remove a tree up to 25 feet

Cost of tree removal by type

A wide variety of trees can be found in British gardens. Use this section as a guide to the potential cost of removal by the type of tree you have.

Here are some average costs for tree removal:

• A mature silver birch or standard apple tree, approx. 25ft: £280

• A small conifer tree or a eucalyptus (up to 30ft): £490

• A Scots pine of up to around 40ft: £800

• A mature oak tree (up to 50ft): £1,430

• Trees taller than 60ft will cost in excess of £2,040

Tree removal prices per project

It's one thing to cut down a tree to the stump. But it's another thing to remove the tree stump and roots and take all the timber away.

To help you budget for the whole project, let's look at some of the other costs involved:

1. Tree stump removal

Tree stump removal costs in the UK vary depending on what approach a tree surgeon suggests. They include:

Stump grinding:

The cheapest professional removal method is stump grinding.

• It can cost as little as £160–£220 for a trunk with a diameter of less than half a foot

• However, the cost of stump grinding can climb to £500–£710 if the stump is larger and requires more powerful tools

Excavation:

• Excavation is a less common method where machines are typically used to dig the stump out completely, including the roots

• Trees with larger root systems can create a lot more work when it comes to stump removal, so you're best off contacting a tree surgeon directly for an accurate quote.

2. Tree pruning costs

A tree surgeon may suggest that a tree you were planning to remove could be pruned instead. Here are the average tree pruning costs in the UK:

• Standard job: A tree trimming cost starts at around £420–£600 for a small-to-medium-sized tree

• Bigger projects: For larger trees, it's typically in the region of £750–£1,080

3. Removing timber and debris

Tree removals produce a lot of timber waste, which needs to be removed. However, not all tree surgeons include waste removal as part of the quote, so it's worth checking in advance.

• Garden waste removal typically costs between £100–£800, depending on the amount of waste and accessibility

Tree surgeon day rates

While we've looked at the average costs for removing a tree, it's also handy to know how much a tree surgeon (or arborist) charges for their time. Here are the costs:

• Per day: You're looking at around £240–£400

• Hourly rate: On average, a tree surgeon charges £30–£50 per hour

Get a quote for your tree removal project

Ready to get going on your tree removal project? View tree surgeon profiles, read customer reviews, and contact them directly to discuss pricing using the Checkatrade free mobile app.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

Tree removal cost calculator

Not quite ready to contact a tradesperson and would prefer a rough estimate instead? Why not use our free cost calculator for tree removal below?

Tree removal cost calculator: Help with your budgeting

Using our tree removal cost calculator To get a rough estimate to get a tree removed from your garden or land, we need to know: The approximate height The size of the stump or trunk Whether you need garden waste to be removed As well as the cost of the tree removal, you will probably also need to

Learn more

Factors affecting tree removal costs

As a general rule, the more time, skill and specialist equipment needed to fell a tree, the higher your tree removal cost will be.

However, other factors can impact the cost of tree removal, too. These include:

1. Size of the tree

As explored above, tree size can significantly sway costs. For instance:

• The average tree removal cost in the UK for a tree up to 50 feet is a whopping £1,190–£1,720

• Meanwhile, you'll be looking at paying nearer £240–£340 to remove a tree up to 25 feet

2. The type of tree

Some trees, such as conifers, have shallow root systems that don’t stretch too far, making removal easier for a tree surgeon.

However, others, such as oak trees, can have roots as deep as 3-4 metres, so it's a more labour-intensive job.

3. Condition

It's generally cheaper to fell a healthy tree than a decaying (or diseased) tree. That's because there are additional complexities and hazards when felling a decaying tree, such as falling branches.

If the tree is diseased and at risk of spreading disease to nearby trees, the tree may need to be disposed of in a more specialist way.

4. Location and access

If access is difficult for the tree surgeon, this could increase the cost. For instance, if it's positioned in a confined space, on a steep slope, or near a river or a public road.

Similarly, if it's a large tree or it overhangs a public footpath or street, you'll need permission to close the road or gain permission for access equipment to park on the road.

5. Waste disposal

Your tree surgeon will normally ask if you'd like to keep the timber, perhaps for woodchippings or firewood.

If your tree is chopped up where it falls, rather than having it removed from your garden, you can lower your costs.

Get in touch with a tree surgeon for an exact quote.

Hidden costs to consider

We now know the average cost of tree removal in the UK and the factors that could impact the total cost of your project. But are there any hidden costs to consider?

1. Tree surveying

As part of your project, you may need to hire a tree surgeon to carry out a tree survey (also called an arboricultural survey). This is to help decide whether it needs to be cut down.

The typical tree surveying cost is roughly in the region of £300–£420.

You'll often need a survey if you plan to:

• Extend your property

• Construct additional buildings on your land

• Change the access

• Move service lines

2. Legal considerations for tree removal in the UK

While not a 'hidden cost', not understanding the legalities of tree removal could land you with extra expenses to pay. Factors to consider include:

• UK Tree Preservation Order (TPO) laws: Cutting down a protected tree unlawfully could result in a hefty £20,000 fine if convicted in a magistrates’ court

• Conservation Areas: In Conservation Areas, any tree with a trunk diameter over 75mm (measured 1.5m above ground) is automatically protected, requiring a six-week notice to the local council before any cutting or felling

• Public access: If your tree overhangs a public footpath or street, you may need permission to close the road or gain permission for access equipment to park on the road

How to save money on tree removal

Are the costs starting to mount up more than you thought? Here are a few tips to help you save money on your tree removal:

• Save on the cost of waste removal: If you’ve got the time (and muscle power), consider clearing away the debris yourself

• Keep the stump: Skip stump grinding and removal, and leave the stump in place. You could even make it a feature of your garden landscaping

• Compare quotes: We always recommend getting three quotes from local tree surgeons so you know you’re getting a fair price

• Hire an experienced team: They’ll carry out the work safely and efficiently

Reasons you might need tree removal

Tree removal isn’t always about safety concerns. Sometimes, removing a tree may simply be the most practical option.

Here are some of the most common reasons to remove a tree:

• Storm damage: Large broken or hanging branches can pose a serious safety risk

• Leaning: It could be unstable or at risk of falling

• Decay or disease: Fungi growing around the base, cracks in the trunk, dead branches and crumbly wood all point to decay or infection

• Root damage: Large roots can damage foundations, patios, driveways, drains and underground pipework

• Overpowering a small garden: An oversized tree can dominate outdoor space and block light

• Blocking visibility: Trees can obstruct views from windows, driveways or roads

• Interfering with phone or utility lines: Overgrown branches near cables or overhead lines can become hazardous

• High maintenance: Trees with sap and heavy leaf or fruit fall can be time-consuming to maintain

• Personal preference: You may simply want to redesign your garden to create more usable space

Tree removal cost checklist

• Don't forget to check the legalities of tree removal: Via your local council

• Get expert advice: Speak to a qualified tree surgeon to decide on the best approach

• Shop around: Be sure to get at least three quotes from local tree surgeons before you hire

• Hire a checked and reviewed professional: Experience matters

• Ask about extra costs: VAT and tree stump removal

• Check they are fully insured: Tree felling is dangerous work

Find an experienced tree surgeon near you

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Up to £1000. Eligibility criteria and T&C’s apply.

Why use Checkatrade to find tree removal services near you?

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• Reviewed - Over 6.2 million reviews have been published on Checkatrade on everything from communication, tidiness, timekeeping, and quality of work

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The health of any tree is important in any garden. Looking for tree removal costs, want help with finding tree pruning services or not sure where to start, we're here to help!

FAQs

How much does it cost to remove a tree in the UK?

The average cost of tree removal in the UK ranges from around £280 - £2,040. However, this depends on several factors, including the tree size, location, and complexity of the job.

How much does it cost to remove a large tree in the UK?

The average tree removal cost in the UK for a tree up to 50 feet is £1,190–£1,720.

How much does stump grinding cost?

Professional stump grinding can cost as little as £160–£220 for a trunk with a diameter of less than half a foot. However, the cost of stump grinding can climb to £500–£710 if the stump is larger and requires more powerful tools.

Cost of trimming trees near power lines?

If a tree is growing close to power lines, this can be a serious safety hazard. We always recommend contacting the energy company that operates the power line first. They might be happy to cover the cost of a tree surgeon.

What is the average cost of an arborist report in the UK?

The typical tree surveying cost is roughly in the region of £300–£420.

Is tree stump removal included in the price?

Tree stump removal is not always included in the price. Some tree surgeons include stump grinding in their quote, while others charge separately. Always check what’s included before agreeing to the work.

What affects the cost of tree removal?

Many factors impact the cost of tree removal. Everything from size and type of tree to accessibility needs to be considered.

We recommend getting a quote from a professional tree surgeon, as every tree removal project is different.

What time of year is the cheapest for tree removal?

Winter is often the cheapest time for tree removal, as demand for tree surgeons can be lower. Trees are also easier to work on when leaves have fallen, which can help reduce labour time.

Do I need permission to remove a tree?

You may need permission before removing a tree if it’s protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located in a conservation area. Always check with your local council before arranging any work.

How do I know if a tree is protected?

If you're not sure whether a tree on your property is protected, check with your local council. They'll be able to tell you if there is a Tree Preservation Order on your tree.

Can I save money by cutting down a tree myself?

Unless it's a very small tree or you have the experience and correct equipment, we wouldn't recommend it. Tree removal is a very dangerous job in inexperienced hands.

What happens if I don’t remove a damaged or dying tree?

If ignored, a damaged, diseased, or dying tree can be a significant hazard to you, others, and properties. Failing branches can cause serious damage to people or buildings, so it's not worth taking a risk.

If you notice that a tree on your property or overhanging your property is damaged, contact a professional tree surgeon as soon as possible to take a look.

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