FAQ

Deciding to remove a tree is a significant property management task involving safety, legal, and financial considerations. Below are the most frequently asked questions regarding tree removal in 2026.

1. How much does tree removal cost in 2026?

The cost varies based on the tree's size, species, and location. In the UK, average prices currently range from:

• Small Tree (up to 6m): £200 – £500

• Medium Tree (6m – 15m): £500 – £1,200

• Large Tree (over 15m): £1,200 – £3,000+
Factors such as limited access, proximity to power lines, or the need for traffic management in urban areas like Glasgow can increase these estimates.

2. Do I need permission to remove a tree?

Yes, in many cases. You must check for two things before starting:

• Tree Preservation Orders (TPO): If a tree is protected by a TPO, you must apply to your local council for permission. Cutting a protected tree without consent can lead to fines up to £20,000.

• Conservation Areas: If your property is in a Conservation Area, you must provide the council with six weeks' written notice of your intent.
Note: Trees with a stem diameter of less than 75mm (at 1.5m height) are generally exempt from these specific notice requirements.

3. What are the signs that a tree must be removed?

While an arborist can often save a tree, removal is necessary if you see:

• Internal Decay: Hollow trunks, large cavities, or mushrooms growing at the base (fungal brackets).

• Structural Instability: A sudden lean, or soil lifting/cracking at the base of the tree.

• Deadwood: If more than 50% of the crown is dead or has no leaves during the growing season.

• Proximity: Roots damaging foundations or branches interfering with utility lines that cannot be managed by pruning.

4. Can I remove a tree myself?

For small saplings (under 10 feet), DIY removal is possible with basic tools. However, for anything larger, professional removal is strongly advised. Tree felling involves complex physics; an amateur mistake can lead to a tree falling on a house, power lines, or bystanders. Professionals also carry Public Liability Insurance, which covers any accidental damage.

5. When is the best time of year for tree removal?

Late winter or early spring is ideal. Because the trees are dormant and have no leaves, they are lighter and easier for tree surgeons to handle. Furthermore, it is easier to see the branch structure.
Important: You must avoid removing trees during the bird nesting season (typically March to August) to comply with wildlife protection laws unless the tree poses an immediate safety risk.

6. Is stump removal included in the price?

Usually, no. Most tree removal quotes cover "felling to ground level." Removing the stump requires a different machine (a stump grinder) and is typically quoted as an additional service ranging from £80 to £250 depending on the diameter.

7. What happens to the wood and waste?

Reputable tree surgeons usually offer three options:

• Full Removal: They chip the branches and take away the logs (often for biomass or firewood).

• Log Splitting: They cut the trunk into manageable rounds for you to keep as firewood.

• Chipping for Mulch: They leave the wood chips on-site for you to use in your garden.

8. How long does the process take?

Most residential tree removals take between 4 hours and 2 days. A medium-sized tree in a standard garden usually takes one full working day for a team of two or three specialists.