Cost of Tree Surgery in the UK (2025)
Tree surgery costs depend heavily on tree size and work required. Crown reduction starts from £200, while removing a large tree can cost £1,500–£3,000 or more.
What does a tree surgeon do?
Tree surgeons (arborists) carry out tree removal, crown reduction, crown thinning, pollarding, dead-wooding, hedge trimming, and stump grinding. All work involving a chainsaw at height requires NPTC/City & Guilds certification and public liability insurance.
Do I need council permission to remove a tree?
If your tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is in a conservation area, you must apply to your local council before any work. Fines for unauthorised removal of a protected tree can be unlimited. A reputable tree surgeon will check this before starting work.
Cost Breakdown
All prices are indicative UK averages for 2025. Actual costs vary by location, specification, and contractor. London and South East rates are typically 20–35% higher.
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Crown reduction (small tree) | £200 | £500 |
| Crown reduction (large tree) | £500 | £1,200 |
| Tree removal (small) | £300 | £800 |
| Tree removal (large) | £1,000 | £3,000 |
| Stump grinding | £100 | £400 |
| Hedge trimming | £100 | £400 |
What Affects the Cost?
- ✓Size and species of tree
- ✓Accessibility — trees close to buildings or power lines cost more
- ✓Whether a TPO or conservation area consent is required
- ✓Whether waste disposal and stump removal is included
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Post a Job — It's FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for a tree on a boundary?
Generally, each party is responsible for the portion of the tree on their side. If a tree is causing damage to a neighbour's property, you may have a legal obligation to act. A tree surgeon can assess the risk.
Can I keep the wood after tree removal?
Yes — most tree surgeons will leave logs and chip the smaller material into mulch, which can be used in the garden. Ask your tree surgeon to confirm what is included in the quote.