Free and Cheap Tree Removal Options + Saving on a Pro Job

In this article: Free and cheap tree removal options that require little cash outlay and tips for cutting the cost of tree removal if you need to hire a pro.

Dear Dollar Stretcher,
How can we get rid of a very large pine-type tree that is too close to our sidewalk and driveway? It is growing sidewise and has roots that are getting into our sewer. The tree has to go, but my husband claims the cost of removing it is prohibitive. Any ideas on how to get it out as cheaply as possible?
Diane

Editor’s note: Tree removal can be potentially dangerous, so it’s crucial to approach it carefully if you decide to do the job yourself.

Professional tree removal isn’t cheap. Consider the suggestions below from our frugal readers for cheap or free removal options. Then we offer some tips for saving on tree removal costs if you must hire a tree removal company.

Cheap or Free Tree Removal Options

We asked our frugal readers for suggestions for getting a tree removed inexpensively or even for free.

Consider these ideas before spending money on a professional tree removal company. 

1. DIY Tree Removal and Teamwork

We had the same problem. A large tree next to our house was growing into the driveway, and the roots were invading our sewer line.

My husband borrowed a friend’s chainsaw and cut the branches that he was able to get to himself. Another friend, who is in the electric business, had a truck with a lift, and he agreed to cut the higher limbs for us, just charging us for the gas to run his truck. His brother helped him place a chain around the top of the tree before it was felled, to pull it away from the house (so the tree would not fall on the house)!

Then you have wood you can sell to make back your expenses, if you wish. We gave ours to friends.

We still have the stump to remove. We are planning to let it soften, then burn it. You can also rent choppers from equipment rental stores that will chop up the stump.
Valerie

2. The Power Company

Is the pine tree near overhead power lines? If so, the power company may cut it down for free.
Susan

3. The City

Depending on the location of the tree, try calling your municipality and tell them about your problem. Usually, the municipality owns the grass area between your sidewalk and the street. They are the ones who plant the trees in this area.

If they know the tree is getting into the sewer, they may remove it for free.
Carrie

4. Advertise for Free Tree Removal

You might get free tree removal in exchange for the wood. Advertise on craigslist or other local sites that you have a tree that needs to be removed and that you will give the wood free to whoever removes it and cleans the area up.

My parents heat with wood and my stepdad always watches for these notices and then will go and remove the tree so he can get the wood to burn.

Editor’s note: You might not want to try this option if the tree is near your house or roots are tangled around pipes. If the person if inexperienced, they could cost you more in damages then paying to have the tree removed by a professional. You also could be liable if the person gets injured on your property.

Related: 5 Places To Find Free Firewood

5. Some Loggers Do Free Tree Removal

If this is a Pine or Fir tree, check your local area for self-employed loggers. They may even (depending on the size) pay you for the tree. A logger will cut it into merchantable lengths to process as lumber.

I live in the northwest and this is common here.
Catherine

6. Look Into Tree Replacement

Some cities offer tree replacement programs, providing a new tree for planting at a reduced cost or even for free. The new tree can usually go anywhere on your property. Check with your local government to see if there is a replacement program in your area.
Brian

7. Reduce the Cost With Free Stump Removal

I can’t tell you how to cut the tree down cheaply, but I can tell you how to remove the stump without paying for a stump grinder. I learned this from a local county extension agent.

Make many cuts and cross cuts on the top of the trunk with a chain saw or circular saw (in a crisscross pattern). Pour a liberal amount of water over the stump. Next put one or two shovels full of compost on top of the stump. Then place a sheet of clear plastic over the stump and secure it into place with rocks or bricks. A combination of the sun, heat, existing bacteria in the compost and the moisture will cause the wood to break down and accelerate the decomposition process.
A

8. Get Quotes for Cheap Tree Removal

Get a quote from a landscaping or tree removal company before you decide it’s too expensive. We are getting an arborvitae (large evergreen) removed from our front yard for at a very affordable price. They do the cutting and haul the tree away.

Once the trunk and needles are gone, the tree roots should die. Most evergreens can’t live without their needles providing them fuel.
Amy

Reduce the Cost of Professional Tree Cutting Service

If the tree is small and not near any structures, sewage lines or power lines, you may be able to remove it yourself. However, it’s best to leave the job to a professional tree removal service for large trees or those in challenging locations.

If you decide hiring a professional tree removal company is your best option, the following tips can help you save:

1. Assess the situation.

Evaluate the tree’s size, location and condition to determine the difficulty level and potential hazards involved in removing it. These factors will play a part in pricing.

2. Obtain multiple quotes.

Contact several tree removal companies and request quotes for the job to understand the average cost and find the most affordable option.

3. Check for credentials.

Confirm the tree removal service you choose is licensed, insured and reputable. Check online reviews and ask for references to ensure they provide quality work.

4. Time it right.

Tree removal can be more affordable during the off-peak season (late fall to early spring), as demand for these services is lower. You may be able to negotiate a better rate during this time.

5. Bundle services.

If you need additional services like stump grinding, tree trimming or debris removal, ask the company if they offer discounts for bundling these services with tree removal.

6. Do some of the work yourself.

To save time and labor costs, you can clear the area around the tree of any obstacles and debris before the professionals arrive.

If you can cut and split the wood yourself, you can save on disposal costs by keeping it for firewood or offering it to neighbors or friends.

7. Compare financing options.

Some tree removal companies offer financing options. Be sure to compare interest rates and fees before choosing a financing plan.

Related:

• Inexpensive Landscaping Ideas for the Frugal Homeowner
• Cutting Back on Tree Trimming Costs
• Cheap and Free Sources for Landscaping Materials
• Affordable Alternatives to a Grass Lawn
• Killing a Shrub That Keeps Growing Back (Frugal Chemical-Free Solutions)

Reviewed April 2023