Trimming a single tree around Chattanooga usually costs between $300 and $750. Small ornamentals can be under $200, and a big oak over the house on a steep lot can pass $1,500. Here’s what affects the price and how to make sure you’re paying for good work.
These are typical local ranges, not quotes.
Typical trimming prices
| Job | Typical range per tree |
|---|---|
| Small or ornamental tree, under 25 ft | $175 to $400 |
| Medium tree, 25 to 50 ft | $300 to $750 |
| Large tree, over 50 ft | $600 to $1,500 |
| Deadwood only, one large tree | $300 to $800 |
| Hedge or shrub row | Often priced by the hour or by length |
What changes the price
Height and size. Bigger trees take longer and need more climbing or a bucket truck.
How much comes off. A light deadwood clean-out costs less than full crown thinning and clearance work on the same tree.
What’s below. Limbs over a roof, pool or power drop have to be lowered on ropes instead of dropped, which takes longer.
Slope and access. On steep lots around Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain and the ridges, a bucket truck often can’t get close, so the work is done by climbing.
Number of trees. Doing several trees on one visit usually lowers the price per tree.
Signs of a good trimming estimate
- It says what will be done: deadwood removal, roof clearance, crown raising or thinning
- It mentions pruning to the ANSI A300 standard, or the crew can explain proper pruning cuts
- It includes cleanup and chipping
- It does not recommend topping a healthy tree
Topping, cutting the main stems back to stubs, is cheap up front and expensive later. The tree grows weak sprouts that break in storms and often starts to decay. If a crew suggests it, get another estimate.
Saving money on trimming
- Schedule in late fall or winter, when crews are less busy and most trees are dormant
- Have several trees done at once
- Prune young trees early. Shaping a 10-year-old tree costs far less than fixing a 40-year-old one.
- Ask EPB about limbs near their lines first. They may handle trees along distribution lines at no cost to you.
Read more about tree trimming and pruning, or call (423) 275-4820 for a free written estimate.
Need a tree crew around Chattanooga?
Call (423) 275-4820 or send a few details. We’ll match you with an independent local crew for a free written estimate, usually the same day.