How much does tree removal cost in Melbourne?

Typical prices in Melbourne

• Small tree removal (under 5m, clear access): From $500
• Medium tree removal (5 to 10m): From $800
• Large tree removal (over 10m, rigging over structures): From $1,800
• Crane-assisted removal: From $3,500
• Stump grinding, single domestic stump: From $500
• Tree pruning, small to medium tree: From $500
• Large tree pruning (climber, full day): From $1,200
• Arborist report for a council permit: From $500
• Emergency call-out (after hours): Rate given on the phone before dispatch

Prices are starting points, include GST and assume normal suburban access. They are reviewed by our team each year. Every job is quoted on site for free.

Tree removal cost

Size, access and what sits under the tree drive the price. A small tree in an open front yard can be done quickly by two people. A large gum over a two-storey house needs a climber, rigging gear, ground team and sometimes a crane, so it costs more.

Stump removal cost

Most single domestic stumps start from $500 to grind. Price depends on diameter, species (hardwood gums take longer), how far we need to chase surface roots and whether the grinder can get through your gate. Second and third stumps on the same visit cost less each. Read how to remove a tree stump if you are weighing up DIY.

Tree pruning cost

Light pruning of a small to medium tree usually starts from $500. A large tree needing a climber for most of the day is typically from $1,200. Pruning several trees on one visit is the best way to bring the per-tree cost down.

Arborist report cost

A report for a single-tree council permit application is usually from $500. Arboricultural impact assessments for development sites, which cover multiple trees and tree protection zones, are priced on scope. See arborist tree reports and our tree protection zone guide.

What makes a tree job cost more

• Height and trunk diameter, because bigger trees take more cuts and more lowering
• Access: no machine access means everything is carried out by hand
• Targets underneath, such as houses, pools, glasshouses and powerlines
• Species: dense hardwoods and spiny palms take longer and cost more to dispose of
• Tree condition: dead or decayed trees cannot always be climbed and may need a crane or EWP
• Council requirements, if a report or permit is needed first

How to keep the cost down

Group jobs together. Removing two trees and grinding three stumps in one visit is cheaper per item than separate bookings. Keep the wood or mulch if you can use it, which cuts disposal. And book routine work outside storm season, when teams are not stretched by emergencies.

Cheap tree removal: what to check

A very low quote usually means something is missing. Ask whether the price includes rubbish removal and stump grinding, whether the person doing the work holds an AQF arboriculture qualification, and whether they carry public liability insurance. Redback carries $20 million in public liability cover and every quote lists exactly what is included. Our article on the risks of DIY and unqualified tree work is worth a read before you decide.