Tree Service Questions and Answers
Costs
How much does it cost to remove a tree in Texas?
Most removals fall between about $200 and $2,000 in national cost surveys. Small trees under 30 feet often cost $200 to $450; tall trees cost more, and so does a tree close to the house or to power lines. Details in tree removal cost in the RGV.
How much does tree trimming cost?
Surveys put the average at roughly $400 to $600 per tree, from under $100 for a small tree to more than $1,500 for a very tall one.
What is the cheapest time of year for tree removal?
A scheduled job on a calm week usually costs less than an emergency after a storm. In the Valley, that means getting dead or risky trees handled before hurricane season, which starts June 1.
How can I get a tree removed for free?
There's no reliable way to get a tree service for free, but some costs may be covered by someone else. Branches on the power lines on poles are the electric company's to clear. If a tree damages your house, your home insurance may help. Some cities pick up branches from work you do yourself. Be careful with "free" offers from strangers after a storm.
Is stump grinding included?
Not always. Many providers price the stump separately, often about $100 to $400 to grind it. Ask before you agree.
Safety and the law
A branch is touching a power line. Who do I call?
Your electric company, or 911 if a line is down or sparking. In the Valley that's AEP Texas or Magic Valley Electric Cooperative, depending on your address. Don't touch the branch. See trees near power lines.
Can I cut the branches from my neighbor's tree that hang over my yard?
In Texas you can generally trim branches that cross onto your side of the property line. If you damage the tree or your neighbor's property, you can be held responsible, so talk to your neighbor first. Your HOA or city may have rules too.
In Texas, who is responsible if my neighbor's tree falls on my house?
It depends on the situation. Start with your own insurance company. For legal advice, talk to a lawyer.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
It depends on your city and your HOA. Check with your city if the tree is in the parkway or right-of-way, and with your HOA if you have one.
There's a bird nest in my tree. Can it be removed?
Federal law protects the active nests (with eggs or chicks) of migratory birds; removing one needs federal authorization. A good provider checks for nests and may wait until the birds are gone.
Can I burn the branches from my tree?
Texas limits outdoor burning, city rules can be stricter and counties can ban burning in dry weather. Having the branches chipped or hauled away is the safer option.
My citrus tree is sick. Can I move it or give it away?
Check first. Hidalgo, Cameron and other Valley counties are under a state citrus greening quarantine that restricts moving citrus trees. Ask the Texas Department of Agriculture or your county extension office.
Does a tree service need a license to spray my trees?
Yes. In Texas, anyone who applies pesticides to trees for pay needs a license from the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Trees and palms
How do I know if my tree is dead?
Look for bare branches when other trees have leaves, bark falling off and no new growth. After a freeze, give trees time; Texas A&M Forest Service suggested waiting until midsummer before deciding. See signs a tree is dying or dangerous.
Is topping a tree a good way to make it smaller?
No. Tree care groups say topping isn't a necessary practice, and topped trees are on the list of warning signs of a weak tree. Ask for a proper trim.
How many fronds should come off a palm?
Only the ones that are completely brown. Green and yellowing fronds stay. See how often to trim palm trees.
Should I cut my palms short before a hurricane?
No. Remove dead fronds and seed pods, but leave the green ones. In Florida, palms cut down to a few fronds were more likely to lose their crowns in hurricanes.
Calling this service
Who answers when I call?
An independent local tree service that works in your area. You talk to them directly about the job and the price. How it works.
Does it cost anything to call?
No. Calling is free.
Are you a tree company?
No. Valley Tree Help is a referral service. We don't do tree work. The provider you talk to is responsible for the quote, the work and their insurance.
Still have a question?
Call and ask a local tree pro.