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Professional Tree Removal Services in Seattle & the Puget Sound Region

Safe, certified, and code-compliant tree removal performed by ISA Certified Arborists and TRAQ-Qualified Tree Risk Assessors.


Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, hazardous limbs, or a declining tree threatening your home, Sound Tree Care LLC provides professional tree removal services you can trust. Our experienced team handles everything from complex technical removals to emergency tree removal, with every project led by certified arborists focused on safety, precision, and long-term property protection.

🪚 Let’s Talk Tree Removal

From routine removals to complex, high-risk takedowns, Sound Tree Care specializes in professional tree removal services performed by ISA Certified Arborists. We handle everything from hazardous trees and storm-damaged limbs to large removals in tight spaces—always with safety, precision, and code compliance at the forefront.

Whether you’re dealing with an emergency tree removal, planning a permitted removal in Seattle or Bellevue, or need expert guidance on risk mitigation, our arborist-led team is ready to help. We’re proud to be a Comcast RISE 2025 recipient, a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite for 5 years running, and a trusted name for safe, insured, and code-compliant tree removal across the Puget Sound region

💡Certified Arborists. Proven methods. Award-winning tree removal since 2020. 

👉create an online request to get started today.

🥇 Why Safe, Professional Tree Removal Matters

Tree removal is one of the most technical and hazardous services in the green industry. A single miscalculation can result in property damage, severe injury, or catastrophic failure — especially in tight urban lots, on slopes, or near homes, fences, and utilities. That’s why Sound Tree Care uses ISA-certified arborists, advanced rigging techniques, and ANSI Z133 safety standards on every job.


An arborist evaluation of hazardous tree’s structure, load paths, decay, root stability, and environmental conditions to determine the safest removal plan. From precision sectional removals to crane-assisted projects, we ensure every step is controlled, predictable, and fully compliant with Washington State regulations.


Safe tree removal protects your property, your family, and your long-term investment — and it’s the foundation of every service we provide.


Content Authorship & Review

This page is written and reviewed by ISA Certified Arborists to support clear, accurate guidance for homeowners in the Puget Sound region.

Written By
AJ Flanagan, ISA Certified Arborist

AJ Flanagan

Assistant Operations Manager

ISA Certified Arborist (PN-374999A)

AJ supports on-site assessments and practical recommendations for tree pruning, removals, and safety decisions across the Puget Sound region. This page reflects field experience and current arboricultural standards.

Reviewed By
Eric Ledford, ISA Certified Arborist and TRAQ Qualified Tree Risk Assessor

Eric Ledford

Founder, Sound Tree Care LLC

ISA Certified Arborist (PN-9290A) • TRAQ • NUCA Dig Safe

Eric reviewed this page for accuracy and alignment with ISA best practices, ANSI A300 guidance, and common municipal permitting considerations in the Puget Sound region. This content is informational and not legal advice.

🪓Professional Tree Removal Services We Provide

Sound Tree Care LLC offers a full range of residential and commercial tree removal services throughout Seattle and the Puget Sound region. Whether a tree is damaged, diseased, overgrown, or posing a safety risk, our team has the training and equipment to remove it properly.

Our professional tree removal services include:

  • Complete tree removal for hazardous, declining, or unwanted trees
  • Emergency tree removal services following storms, wind events, or sudden failures
  • Large and technical tree removals in tight or complex environments
  • Shared trees on property lines
  • Tree cutting and controlled dismantling using ropes, rigging, and sectional removal
  • Tree debris and disposal services for a clean, safe finish

Many homeowners use the term tree cutting service when they actually need full tree removal. Our certified arborists assess each situation carefully and recommend the safest, most effective solution — never unnecessary work.

Every project is handled with professional equipment, experienced crews, and a strict focus on safety, property protection, and code compliance.

ISA Certified Arborist Tree Removal

🌳Residential and Commercial Tree Removal in Seattle, Tacoma, and the Greater Puget Sound

At Sound Tree Care LLC, we provide professional tree removal services for both residential and commercial properties throughout Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, and the greater Puget Sound region. Whether you're dealing with a hazardous tree after a storm, preparing for a construction project, or managing vegetation on a commercial site, our licensed and insured team ensures safe, efficient, and code-compliant removals.


We specialize in removing everything from large, high-risk trees in tight urban lots to small ornamental trees — always with a focus on protecting your property and minimizing disruption.


✅ Our Tree Removal Services Include:


  • 24/7 Emergency tree removal after storms or accidents
  • Hazardous tree assessment and safe dismantling
  • Tree clearing for development and construction sites
  • Full site cleanup and debris hauling after removal

Sound Tree Care is trusted by homeowners, contractors, HOAs, and property managers for reliable, affordable tree removal with safety and compliance built in. We follow ANSI A300 and ISA best practices, and we’re happy to assist with permits or replanting when needed.

Stump Grinding

🪵Stump Grinding and Tree Root Removal Services in Seattle & Puget Sound

Leftover stumps can be both unsightly and hazardous. Our professional stump grinding and removal services help you reclaim your yard’s full potential. We grind stumps down below ground level and remove any remaining root structures to prevent regrowth and eliminate tripping hazards.


Benefits of Our Stump Grinding Services:


  • Improve yard appearance and curb appeal
  • Prevent pests like termites and ants
  • Eliminate safety hazards for kids and pets
  • Free up space for new landscaping or construction

With specialized equipment and a trained team, Sound Tree Care LLC offers fast, affordable, and clean stump removal solutions for both residential and commercial properties.

Certified Arborist Emergency tree removal at Seattle

Emergency Tree Removal – 24/7 Rapid Response for Storm-Damaged Trees

High winds, heavy rain, and ice storms can cause even healthy trees to split, fall, or drop dangerous limbs. When that happens, our licensed arborists are ready to respond — day or night. We provide 24/7 emergency tree removal throughout Seattle, Tacoma, and the Puget Sound region to clear fallen trees, stabilize hazards, and make your property safe again.


We work directly with homeowners, property managers, and insurance adjusters to handle urgent tree removals quickly and safely — with full cleanup and documentation provided.


Visit our Emergency Tree Services page for more info.

ISA certified arborist badge

📝Do I Need a Permit to Remove My Tree?

Tree removal regulations vary widely between cities — and whether or not you need a permit depends on where the tree is located, how large it is, and what kind of land it sits on.


In Seattle, for example, permits may be required from:


  • SDOT – for street trees in the public right-of-way
  • SDCI – for trees on private property, especially if they’re over 6" diameter or connected to construction or development
  • Seattle Parks Department – for trees in parks or greenbelt areas
  • Critical Area Regulations (ECA) – for trees in landslide zones, steep slopes, near creeks, wetlands, or other protected areas

Other cities like Shoreline, Burien, Bellevue, and Tukwila have their own permitting departments and tree protection rules, which can differ significantly from Seattle’s.


Not sure what applies to your property? Don’t worry — we can help. Our team will assess your site, determine if a permit is needed, and help you handle any required paperwork or arborist reports. Learn more about our Arboricultural Consulting services, which include risk assessments, permit guidance, and compliance documentation.


We work with municipalities across King County and stay up to date on the latest tree codes — so you don’t have to.

Get a Tree Removal Bid!

Professional Tree Removal Services for Complex & Hazardous Trees

Not all tree removals are simple or straightforward. Many trees require professional planning due to their size, condition, location, or proximity to structures. Professional tree removal focuses on safely dismantling trees that pose a risk to people, property, or nearby infrastructure while minimizing impact to the surrounding landscape.

At Sound Tree Care, tree removal projects are led by ISA Certified Arborists who assess tree condition, structural stability, targets, and site constraints before any cutting begins. This ensures the safest possible approach—especially for trees that are leaning, declining, storm-damaged, or growing in confined urban spaces. Professional removal is critical when trees cannot be felled safely in one piece and must instead be removed in controlled sections.

Dangerous & Hazardous Tree Removal Near Homes and Structures

Trees are considered hazardous when defects or site conditions increase the likelihood of failure and potential damage. These risks are often magnified when trees are located close to homes, garages, neighboring properties, fences, or utilities.

Common hazardous conditions include dead or dying trees, large dead tops, cracks or cavities in the trunk, root plate movement, excessive lean, or heavy limbs extending over occupied areas. In urban environments like Seattle, hazardous tree removal often requires sectional dismantling, advanced rigging, and careful coordination to protect nearby structures.

When risk factors are present, timely removal can prevent costly property damage and reduce safety hazards for occupants and neighbors.

Large Tree Removal and Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Projects

Large tree removal projects require specialized equipment, experience, and planning. As trees increase in height and diameter, the forces involved during removal increase significantly, making professional techniques essential.

Crane-assisted tree removal is often used when trees are too large to be safely rigged down piece by piece or when space limitations prevent traditional dismantling. Cranes allow sections of the tree to be lifted vertically and set down in designated landing zones, reducing stress on remaining tree parts and minimizing ground impact.

This method is especially effective for large trees near homes, tight access sites, and complex urban removals where safety and precision are critical.

Residential and Commercial Tree Removal Services

Residential Tree Removal

Residential tree removal focuses on protecting homes, yards, and neighboring properties. Whether removing a single hazardous tree or managing multiple trees on a residential lot, careful planning ensures that landscaping, fences, and structures remain intact throughout the process. Homeowners often require tree removal due to storm damage, declining tree health, or construction needs.

H3: Commercial & HOA Tree Removal

Commercial tree removal projects may involve apartment complexes, HOAs, retail properties, office parks, or municipal sites. These projects often require additional coordination, traffic control, access planning, and compliance with local regulations. Sound Tree Care works closely with property managers and HOAs to provide efficient, professional tree removal solutions that minimize disruption and liability.

Tree Removal Permits and Local Regulations in Seattle

Tree removal in Seattle and surrounding cities is often regulated by municipal tree codes. Permits may be required depending on tree size, species, location, and whether the property falls within an Environmentally Critical Area (ECA).

Street trees, landmark trees, and trees within shoreline or steep slope zones frequently require additional review and documentation. In many cases, an arborist report is necessary to demonstrate tree condition, risk factors, or construction conflicts. Understanding local regulations before removing a tree helps avoid fines, delays, and compliance issues.

How We Safely Remove Trees (Our Process)

Site Assessment & Planning

Every tree removal begins with a detailed site assessment. Arborists evaluate tree structure, surrounding targets, access limitations, and soil conditions to determine the safest removal method.

Risk Mitigation & Controlled Dismantling

Trees are removed using controlled sectional dismantling, rigging systems, or crane assistance when necessary. Each cut is planned to manage forces safely and prevent unintended movement.

Cleanup & Disposal

Once removal is complete, debris is cleared from the site. Logs, branches, and wood chips are processed and removed or repurposed based on client preference and site conditions.

🔒 Licensed, Insured & Safety-Compliant Tree Removal

Tree removal requires strict safety, training, and regulatory compliance. At Sound Tree Care LLC, every removal is performed by certified professionals following ANSI Z133 safety standards and all Washington State legal requirements

Our Credentials & Compliance

  • 🪪 Washington State Licensed Contractor
  • 🛡️ Fully Insured — Liability & Workers’ Compensation
  • 🌲 ISA Certified Arborists & TRAQ Qualified
  • 🏛 SDOT & SDCI-Compliant for Seattle Right-of-Way Work
  • 📝 Written Proposals, Documentation & Permitting Support
  • ⚙️ Safe Work Procedures for Removal, Rigging & Aerial Operations

You deserve safe, professional tree care that protects your home, your family, and your investment — every single time.

🌍Tree Removal Services in Seattle Neighborhoods

At Sound Tree Care LLC, we provide expert tree removal solutions across all Seattle neighborhoods for both residential and commercial properties. Our ISA Certified Arborists safely remove hazardous, overgrown, storm-damaged, or unwanted trees — from dense urban lots to large suburban landscapes — always with full compliance to Seattle’s tree codes and permitting requirements.

Whether you live in a neighborhood with tight access, steep slopes, protected trees, or environmentally critical areas (ECAs), our team ensures safe, efficient, and code-compliant tree removal tailored to your property’s needs.

🧭  Seattle Neighborhoods We Serve

  • 📍North Seattle:

    Green Lake

    Northgate

    Maple Leaf

    Wedgewood

    Lake City

    Roosevelt

    Haller Lake

    Broadview

    Licton Springs

  • 📍Central Seattle:

    Capitol Hill

    Madison Valley

    Madrona

    Central District

    First Hill

    Montlake

    Eastlake

    Yesler Terrace

  • 📍West Seattle Tree Removal:

    West Seattle

    Admiral

    Alki

    Delridge

    Fauntleroy

    High Point

    Arbor Heights

    Highland Park

  • 📍Northwest Seattle:

    Ballard

    Old Ballard

    Loyal Heights

    Sunset Hill

    Crown Hill

    Phinney Ridge

    Greenwood

    Blue Ridge

    North Beach

  • 📍South Seattle:

    Beacon Hill

    Rainier Valley

    Rainier Beach

    Seward Park

    Columbia City

    Mount Baker

    NewHolly

  • 📍Downtown & Surrounding:

    Queen Anne

    Belltown

    South Lake Union

    Pioneer Square

    Denny Triangle

    International District

 🗺️Tree Removal in Bellevue, Tacoma & Greater Puget Sound Areas

From the Eastside foothills to island communities and South Sound neighborhoods, Sound Tree Care LLC provides trusted, professional tree removal and stump grinding throughout the Greater Puget Sound region. Our ISA Certified Arborists tailor every project to the unique terrain, tree species, and permitting requirements of each local jurisdiction — ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient removals no matter the setting.

Whether you’re in Bellevue, Redmond, Issaquah, Kent, Tacoma, or anywhere in between, our team delivers expert service backed by industry-leading safety standards and deep regional experience. Explore the locations below to see where we work and how we can help keep your property safe, healthy, and code compliant.

🌳 Tree Removal Frequently Asked Questions

These frequently asked questions address common concerns about tree removal in Seattle, including safety, permitting, pricing factors, timelines, and what to expect before, during, and after a tree is removed. Whether you’re dealing with a hazardous tree, planning a construction project, or managing storm-damaged trees, this section explains how professional tree removal works and when an ISA Certified Arborist may be required.

  • ❓ How much does tree removal cost in Seattle?

    Tree removal costs vary based on tree size, location, condition, and access. Factors such as hazardous conditions, proximity to structures, and permit requirements can also affect pricing. An on-site assessment is the best way to determine accurate costs.

  • ❓When is a tree considered dangerous?

    A tree may be considered dangerous when defects such as decay, dead tops, cracks, root instability, or excessive lean increase the likelihood of failure. Trees near homes, sidewalks, or frequently occupied areas pose a higher risk when defects are present.


    A tree risk assessment by a certified arborist

  • ❓ Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

    In many cases, yes. Seattle and surrounding cities regulate tree removal, especially for large, protected, or environmentally sensitive trees. Permit requirements depend on tree size, species, and location.

  • ❓ Can you remove trees near homes, fences, utilities, or structures?

    Yes. Trees near structures or utilities are removed using controlled dismantling techniques and advanced rigging or crane systems when necessary to maintain safety and prevent damage.

  • ❓What happens to the stump after tree removal?

    Stumps can be left in place or removed through stump grinding. Grinding reduces the stump below ground level, allowing the area to be regraded or replanted.

  • ❓ Is emergency tree removal more expensive?

    Emergency tree removal may cost more due to urgent response, hazardous conditions, and after-hours work. Storm-damaged or unstable trees often require additional safety measures.

Tree Removal Cost Factors

The cost of professional tree removal can vary significantly depending on tree size, location, condition, and the complexity of the work. Factors such as hazardous trees, emergency tree removal, proximity to structures, permitting requirements, and specialized rigging all affect tree removal pricing. To help homeowners plan accurately, we’ve put together a detailed breakdown of tree removal costs in Seattle, including average pricing ranges and what to expect when hiring a licensed, insured tree removal company.

tree felling hinge
By Eric Ledford March 21, 2022
Size, number, the health of the tree, and hazards are some factors that impact the cost of having professional tree removal in 2024. Call. 206-486-7790

Related Tree Services & Resources

Our free firewood and tree log program is part of our broader approach to responsible material handling from active tree removal projects in Seattle. When usable logs are available, we prioritize nearby drop-off locations to reduce waste, fuel use, and unnecessary hauling.

If firewood or large logs aren’t the right fit, many homeowners and landscapers prefer free wood chips in Seattle for mulching, erosion control, garden beds, and soil improvement. Like firewood, wood chip availability depends on job location and timing.

If you’re looking for professional help instead of material pickup, learn more about our ISA Certified Arborist tree removal services in Seattle, including safe removals, pruning, and environmentally responsible cleanup throughout the city.

🌲 Get a Tree Removal Estimate.

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.


✅ Free, No-Obligation Estimates

🪵 Full Cleanup & Debris Removal

🏗️ Permit Guidance for Seattle, Tacoma & Local Cities

⚠️ Safe Work Procedures for Removals, Rigging & Aerial Operations


🧰 ISA Certified Arborists, TRAQ-Qualified

⭐ 5-Star Rated on Google, Yelp & Facebook

🛡️ Licensed, Insured & Code-Compliant

🥇 Experience the Sound Difference: Trusted. Local. Professional.


📞 Call Now: 206-486-7790 speak with an arborist.
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Request Your Free Tree Removal Quote Online ➝