Tree removal cost in Los Angeles, CA
Tell us about your tree removal and trimming project in Los Angeles, California. Include the ZIP code and scope; we look for an independent provider for your address.
Typical price ranges
HomeGuide puts the average tree removal at $400 to $1,200, with small trees from about $200 and very large or hazardous trees at $2,500 or more. Height, trunk diameter, access and nearby structures drive the price.
- Average removal: $400–$1,200
- Small tree, under 30 ft: $200–$500
- Medium tree, 30–60 ft: $500–$1,500
- Large tree, 60–80 ft: $850–$2,000
- Very large tree, over 80 ft: $1,200–$2,500+
- Palm tree: $200–$1,200
- Oak tree: $300–$2,500
- Pine tree: $250–$1,600
- Stump grinding: $100–$500+
- Tree trimming: $400–$900
- Emergency or storm removal: 2 to 3 times the normal rate
Source: HomeGuide, Tree Removal Cost, updated February 4, 2026, accessed October 29, 2026. National averages, not a quote; your price depends on your project. HomeGuide, Tree Removal Cost
Local labor costs in Los Angeles
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2025 median wage of $29.06 an hour for tree trimmers and pruners in the Los Angeles metro area, 19% above the national median of $24.50. Labor is a large part of these jobs, so local wages are one reason quotes here can differ from the national ranges.
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Los Angeles metro area (SOC 37-3013)
Local rules and tips for Los Angeles
Los Angeles protects native oaks, Southern California black walnut, western sycamore and California bay trees that measure 4 inches or more in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground, plus some native shrubs. Removing or damaging one on private property needs a permit from the Board of Public Works through StreetsLA Urban Forestry.
StreetsLA: protected tree removal permits
For a project in Los Angeles, California, describe the property and access from nearby Burbank or Glendale. Include photos of the actual work area so a provider can review your request.
Hiring in California: license and permit checks
California requires a CSLB contractor license when a project totals $1,000 or more in labor and materials, or when a building permit is needed or workers are employed. Ask for the license number and check it with CSLB; tree service (D-49) and roofing (C-39) contractors must carry workers’ compensation per CSLB.
Ask the provider for the license or registration number if their trade requires one, and ask about insurance. Confirm city or county permits with the local building department and get a written scope of work.
What changes the price
- Height and trunk diameter.
- Access for a bucket truck or crane, and whether the tree must be taken down in pieces.
- Proximity to the house, fences, power lines or a pool.
- Condition: dead, leaning or storm-damaged trees take more care.
- Stump grinding, root removal and haul-away, which may be priced separately.
- Permits for protected trees in some cities.
How to choose a provider
- Get at least three written quotes that list the same scope, materials and cleanup.
- Check the license (where your state requires one) and ask for proof of liability insurance.
- Ask who pulls the permit and whether the permit fee is in the price.
- Agree on a payment schedule tied to finished work; avoid paying most of the price up front.
- Get the warranty for labor and materials in writing.
Red flags
- Cash-only deals or pressure to sign the same day.
- No written contract, no address and no proof of insurance.
- A price far below every other quote with a vague scope.
- Door-to-door offers right after a storm from crews you cannot verify.
Services in Los Angeles
Other areas
Tree removal cost guides
What tree removal usually costs, with sourced price ranges and local rules.
Get a local quote
Border Quotes is a referral service, not a contractor. Send your project and ZIP code; we look for an independent local provider who can quote it. This service is new, so we cannot promise availability, and we tell you if we cannot find one.
FAQ
How much does tree removal cost in Los Angeles?
HomeGuide puts the average tree removal at $400 to $1,200, with small trees from about $200 and very large or hazardous trees at $2,500 or more. Height, trunk diameter, access and nearby structures drive the price. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2025 median wage of $29.06 an hour for tree trimmers and pruners in the Los Angeles metro area, 19% above the national median of $24.50. Labor is a large part of these jobs, so local wages are one reason quotes here can differ from the national ranges.
Are there local rules for tree removal in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles protects native oaks, Southern California black walnut, western sycamore and California bay trees that measure 4 inches or more in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground, plus some native shrubs. Removing or damaging one on private property needs a permit from the Board of Public Works through StreetsLA Urban Forestry.
Which license and permit checks apply in California?
California requires a CSLB contractor license when a project totals $1,000 or more in labor and materials, or when a building permit is needed or workers are employed. Ask for the license number and check it with CSLB; tree service (D-49) and roofing (C-39) contractors must carry workers’ compensation per CSLB. Ask the provider for the license or registration number if their trade requires one, and ask about insurance. Confirm city or county permits with the local building department and get a written scope of work.
How much does it cost to remove a tree?
HomeGuide reports $400 to $1,200 on average. Small trees can cost around $200 to $500 and trees over 80 feet $1,200 to $2,500 or more.
Is stump grinding included?
Often not. HomeGuide lists stump grinding at about $100 to $500 or more, so ask whether the quote includes the stump, roots and haul-away.
What credentials should a tree service have?
Ask for proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. ISA Certified Arborist credentials and TCIA accreditation are useful signs of training.