Maintaining the lush, leafy character of The Hills District is a priority for every homeowner. However, there comes a time when a tree becomes a safety risk, outgrows its space, or suffers from irreversible disease.
Deciding to remove a tree is a big step. In this guide, we break down the three most important things you need to know: the costs, the legalities of council permits, and why hiring a certified arborist is non-negotiable.
1. How Much Does Tree Removal Cost in The Hills?
One of the most frequent questions we receive is, “How much will it cost to remove my tree?” Because every tree and property is unique, pricing varies. On average, tree removal in the Hills area ranges from $500 to $2,500+.
The final quote depends on several key factors:
- Tree Size and Height: Larger trees require more crew members, specialized rigging, and more time.
- Accessibility: Is the tree in an open backyard, or is it hanging over a pool, power lines, or a neighbor’s fence?
- Tree Health: Dead or decaying trees can be more dangerous to climb, requiring cranes or elevated work platforms (EWPs).
- Stump Grinding: Most homeowners opt for stump grinding to reclaim their yard, which is usually added as a separate service.
2. Navigating Council Permits (The Hills & Hornsby Shires)
Before you pick up the phone, it is vital to check local regulations. Both The Hills Shire Council and Hornsby Shire Council have strict Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).
Removing a tree without a permit can result in significant fines. Generally, you may need a permit if:
- The tree is over a certain height (usually 3 to 5 metres).
- The tree is a protected native species.
- Your property is in a designated “Bushfire Prone” or “Significant Landscape” zone.
Pro Tip: At Hills Professional Arborists, we assist our clients in navigating the permit process, ensuring your tree work is 100% legal and compliant.
3. Why You Must Hire a Certified Arborist
It can be tempting to hire a general “tree lopper” who offers a cheap price, but tree work is high-risk. Hiring a licensed and ISA-certified arborist protects you in three ways:
Safety and Insurance
Tree removal is one of the most dangerous professions. We use industry-standard safety gear and carry full public liability insurance, so you aren’t liable if an accident occurs on your property.
Tree Health Expertise
Sometimes, a tree doesn’t need to be removed. A certified arborist can often save a tree through professional pruning, cabling, or soil treatment—saving you money and preserving your landscape.
Property Protection
We use technical rigging to lower branches slowly and controlled. This ensures your gutters, fences, and garden beds remain untouched. As we like to say: No debris, no mess—just a perfectly tidy backyard.
Conclusion: Ready to Clear Some Space?
Whether you are dealing with a hazardous gum tree or simply want to open up your garden for more sunlight, choosing a local expert makes the difference.
At Hills Professional Arborists, we combine local knowledge with world-class equipment to get the job done right the first time.
Need a professional opinion? [Contact us today for an obligation-free quote] on your tree removal or pruning needs. Let’s keep The Hills safe and beautiful together.
