Tree removal is an essential service for maintaining safe and healthy outdoor spaces, but the cost of tree removal in Seattle and surrounding areas can vary widely depending on several factors. If you're planning to remove a tree in 2025, this updated guide will walk you through what affects the cost, provide real-world examples, and explain why professional services are worth the investment.
The 2025 Cost of Tree Removal at Seattle, WA
March 21, 2022
Written By: Eric Ledford
ISA Certified Arborist – PN-9290A
ISA Qualified Tree Risk Assessor (TRAQ)
Updated: November 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Tree at Seattle in 2025?
Factors That Impact the Cost of Tree Removal in Seattle in 2025
Tree removal costs in Seattle depend on tree size, location, emergency timing, and whether the tree is near power lines or protected under the city's tree code. Removal in Environmental Critical Areas (ECAs) or involving landmark trees may require permits and higher labor costs.:
1. Tree Size
The size of the tree is the most significant factor affecting the cost of removal:
- Small trees (under 30 feet): Easier and faster to remove, often costing less.
- Medium trees (30–60 feet): Require more time and equipment, increasing the cost.
- Large trees (over 60 feet): Often require specialized equipment like cranes and more labor, resulting in higher costs.
2. Risk Level
High-risk removals are more expensive due to safety considerations:
- Dead or diseased trees: Often unstable and require extra precautions.
- Proximity to hazards: Trees near power lines, buildings, or other structures pose higher risks.
- Emergency removals: Urgent situations, such as storm-damaged trees, often come with higher costs.
3. Location and Accessibility
If the tree is difficult to access, removal costs may increase by 25%–50%:
- Trees located in tight spaces or areas inaccessible to machinery may require climbers.
- Urban locations with limited space often require additional labor or equipment.
4. Additional Services
Add-on services can significantly affect your total cost:
- Stump grinding or removal: Grinding costs less than full stump and root ball removal.
- Wood chipping and haul-away: Additional fees may apply for branch chipping and log removal.
- Tree planting or habitat creation: Eco-friendly services like habitat creation for wildlife are valuable but add to the overall expense.
5. Permitting Requirements in Seattle
In Seattle, a tree removal permit is typically required for any tree exceeding 6 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH), especially on private property or within environmentally critical areas. Permit fees, review timelines, and required documentation — such as site plans or certified arborist reports — can all influence the total cost of tree removal. Homeowners should always verify whether their project involves a “significant tree,” heritage tree, or trees within ECAs, as additional approvals may be necessary.
6. Environmentally Critical Areas (ECAs)
Tree removal in Seattle’s Environmentally Critical Areas (ECAs) — including steep slopes, wetlands, and riparian buffers — is subject to stricter regulations. Projects in these zones often require an Environmental Review and may involve mitigation measures like replanting native tree species. ECAs typically trigger additional permit requirements and arborist documentation, which can increase the overall cost and timeline of your tree removal project.
Why Do Tree Removal Costs Vary Between Seattle Tree Services?
Different tree care companies use varied approaches and equipment, which can significantly affect pricing:
- Climbing vs. Lifts: A climber may be necessary if the tree is inaccessible to bucket trucks, increasing labor costs.
- Chipping and Recycling: Some companies recycle wood chips or donate logs, while others charge for haul-away.
- Specialized Equipment: Using cranes or other advanced tools can speed up the process but add to the expense.
When comparing quotes, make sure to ask about the services included. A seemingly lower quote may not cover services like brush chipping, stump grinding or debris removal included in a more expensive quote.
The Cost of Tree Removal in Seattle, WA: What You Need to Know 🌳️
Removing a tree in Seattle can be a necessary but costly task. Whether it's due to storm damage, disease, or landscape redesign, understanding the costs involved helps you make informed decisions. Here’s everything you need to know about tree removal costs in Seattle.
❓ People Also Ask: Tree Removal Costs in Seattle
❓ How much does it cost to remove a tree in Seattle?
On average,
tree removal in Seattle costs between $300 and $2,500. The final price depends on factors like the
size of the tree,
location, and whether
special equipment is needed. Larger or more dangerous trees can cost more.
❓ How much should I expect to pay for tree removal?
Nationwide, tree removal can range from
$150 to $3,000. In Seattle, expect to pay
closer to the higher end due to dense urban areas and environmental regulations.
❓ Will insurance pay for tree removal?
Homeowners insurance typically covers tree removal if the tree falls due to a covered peril, like a storm, and causes damage to your home or structures. However, it
won't cover removal if the tree falls without causing damage or if it's due to neglect.
❓ What is the cheapest time of year for tree removal?
The
cheapest time for tree removal is during the off-season in
late winter or early spring, when demand for tree services is lower. Booking ahead during these times can help you save on costs.
Tree Removal Costs in Seattle: Real Examples from Previous Projects
To give you an idea of pricing, here are examples of tree removal projects completed by Sound Tree Care:
Two Tree Removals in SeaTac – $4,800
This Seattle-area tree removal project included the removal of a 60-foot locust tree and an 86-foot Douglas fir tree in SeaTac, WA. The total cost was $4,800 and included full-service tree removal, professional rigging, limb and brush chipping, and log hauling. Both trees were near residential structures and power lines, requiring careful sectional takedown by ISA Certified Arborists. This real-world example shows the cost range for large tree removal in Seattle’s suburbs, where factors like height, tree species, and site access influence the final price.
Douglas Fir Tree Removal in Normandy Park – $4,200
In this large tree removal project in Normandy Park, WA, our crew removed a towering 120-foot Douglas Fir with a 38-inch diameter at breast height (DBH). The job totaled $4,200 and included full-service branch recycling, log removal, and professional stump grinding. The tree was located near a home and required expert rigging and sectional takedown to ensure safety and prevent property damage. This example highlights typical costs for removing mature conifer trees in the Seattle metro area and shows how location, tree size, and service complexity can affect pricing.
Emergency Tree Removal in Seattle – $2,500
In this urgent tree removal project in Seattle, WA, our team responded to a hazardous situation where a 35-foot fallen tree had landed directly on a home's power mast. The total cost was $2,500 and included emergency permitting, expert assessment, and advanced rigging techniques to safely lift and remove the log without causing further damage to the structure. Our ISA Certified Arborists used precision gear and sectional takedown to minimize impact. The final section of the tree was safely rolled off the roof in controlled fashion. This job highlights the importance of professional emergency tree removal when trees fall on homes or utility connections.
Cost of Fallen Tree Removal in 2025
Fallen trees are typically less hazardous to remove than standing trees, making them less expensive. However, costs can still vary based on size, location, and whether wood chipping or hauling is required. However, if the tree fell onto anything other than the ground the result can be very expensive.
Example:
A fallen tree removal in Seattle may range from $500 to $5000 for tree that fall to the ground. However, if a tree falls on a house it may cost $1000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the scope of the job.
Two Options to Lower the Costs of Tree Removal
1. Bundling Services
Removing multiple trees in one project can lower the per-tree cost due to bundled services. It may also make sense to have us trim your hedges and prune your ornamental trees while we are already onsite for the tree removal.
2. Eco-Friendly Debris Disposal
Consider keeping stumps as wildlife habitats or having logs repurposed for mulch or firewood to minimize waste. These services may come with additional costs but have long-term ecological benefits. Others, such as keeping wood chips from your tree removal as mulch can even lower the cost of service.
Why Choose Sound Tree Care for Tree Removal in 2025?
Sound Tree Care is a top-rated, licensed tree care company serving Seattle and surrounding communities. With certified arborists on staff, we provide safe, efficient, and eco-conscious tree removal services tailored to your needs.
Our Services Include:
- Tree risk assessment and consultation.
- Permitting assistance for regulated tree removals.
- Stump grinding and removal.
- Branch chipping and log hauling.
- Tree planting and habitat creation.
We work under the advisement of certified arborists to ensure every tree removal is done safely and responsibly.
🌲 Ready for Safe, Expert Tree Removal? Let’s Take Care of It.
We Handle Tree Removal the Right Way.
Whether you’re dealing with a hazardous tree, tight-access removal, storm damage, or a backyard project, our ISA Certified Arborists provide safe, code-compliant, and efficient removals across Seattle and the Puget Sound region.
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🪵 Full Cleanup & Debris Removal
🏗️ Permit Guidance for Seattle, Tacoma & Local Cities
⚠️ Safe Work Procedures for Removals, Rigging & Aerial Operations
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Sound Tree Care is a top-rated, licensed tree care company with a certified arborist on staff serving Seattle, and the surrounding communities. Registered with the City of Seattle DOT and DCCI as a Tree Service Provider. Our tree care specialists can help you keep your trees healthy and strong with regular tree pruning, preventative maintenance, removal, and disease treatment services.
