If you have a pine tree that needs removing, there are several options available for you. Below we have outlined the three best ways in order to remove it. Before you get started though, you will need to make sure it is legal to do so. Every city and council has its own set of rules for tree trimming and removal. Removing a pine tree without a permit can land you in hot water and can result in large fines.
1. Tree Removal Service
Of course, the safest and easiest option is to use a professional tree removal service. With this service, you can be guaranteed to have the tree removed efficiently and safely, with the best possible outcome. Tree services should be run by a certified arborist. This means they have studied arboriculture and know best practices for removing trees in confined spaces.
It is always worth double checking with any company you get out to quote your pine tree removal job to first make sure they can provide proof of qualification and public liability insurance.
If you hire a tree service that is not insured, you are taking a huge risk and if they were to damage something or injure themselves, it could end up costing you a whole lot more than anticipated.
2. DIY Tree Removal
In order to save money, sometimes people will carry out the tree removal themselves. If you choose this option, just be sure that you are aware of the risks involved, and it is vital that you have the correct equipment for the job. Carry out the tree removal slowly, and methodically, with the right resources, in order to avoid injuries and accidents.
Cost of DIY – Even though it is cheaper, you will need to pay for the hire of a chainsaw and you will also need to pay for the dumping of green waste. One way to save on green waste dumping fees is to dispose of it over time in your garbage bin, but depending on the size of the tree, it could take a while.
Pro tip: If you have a tree with quite a lot of timber, I suggest you but it up into 1 foot long logs and post a photo on Gumtree or eBay. Make it an auction for firewood and watch people bid the price up. Not only are you going to save yourself the trouble of removing the timber, but you are going to recoup the cost of chainsaw hire.
3. Poison
It is possible to poison a pine tree using chemicals or herbicides, particularly herbicides that are concentrated with glyphosate. Expose the bark beforehand, and spray the herbicide onto the trunk – depending on the condition and size of the tree, this method can kill the tree in just a few days making removal a lot easier.
Is it Illegal to Remove a Pine Tree?
No, it is not illegal to remove a pine tree, but all tree removals are usually regulated by the city where you live even if they are on your property. Therefore, it is not a good idea to remove a pine tree whenever you want, you will usually need to seek permission beforehand from your local city department.
Will I Need a Permit?
Often, yes, your local area will require you to obtain a permit before removing the tree. There are exceptions, such as if the tree is dead before you remove it, however, it is always best to call your local city department and check with them what permit you need, and how much it costs, as it varies from city to city. Don’t think you can remove a tree without a permit just because the tree is on your property. If you remove a tree without a permit and you were required to have one, then you could face legal problems further down the road.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Pine Tree Removed?
In order to get an accurate quote, you will need to have a professional arborist visit your home and make an assessment of the tree. While the height of a tree is a large factor in the cost, other things also have to be taken into account such as the state of the area around it, the type of pine tree, and the condition of the tree.
As of this year, the average price for pine tree removal is about $425 according to gotreequotes.com – this is how much you should expect to roughly pay for a pine tree that is around forty feet. Of course, the price will be lower or higher depending on the height and the other factors that we mentioned. While it may seem like a lot of money, remember that tree removal is a dangerous job, and arborists are highly skilled and trained in removing trees safely and effectively.
Can I Get a Tree Removed Free?
As a general rule, you will rarely be able to get your tree removed for free. A couple of possible exceptions for this are; firstly, give your local felling or landscaping company a call, they may remove your tree for free in exchange for the wood if they have a need for your tree. Secondly, if your tree is currently causing a problem with electricity cables, water pipes, or something similar, then give your local city a call and explain the situation. You can schedule an appointment with an expert tree service provider. They will send someone to remove the tree for free if it is interfering with cables, wires, pipes and such.
Will Vinegar Kill a Pine Tree?
Vinegar alone is not enough to kill the whole pine tree, however, you can spray the leaves with vinegar which is sometimes effective at killing them off. Once the leaves are dead, this means the tree can no longer photosynthesize, and your pine tree will start to die very slowly.