Tree removal
Taking down dead, split or leaning trees.
Taking a tree down is about control: where each piece lands, and what it misses on the way down. A dead, split or leaning tree near the house is a common reason to take one down.
How the job is done
- 1The tree is looked over first: its lean, dead wood, cracks or decay, and what sits under it.
- 2Limbs come off first, lowered on a rope where there is no room to drop them.
- 3The trunk comes down in sections, or in one piece where there is clear space.
- 4Wood and brush are cut down to a size that can be moved.
What affects the cost
- Height and trunk width
- What stands under it
- How much has to be lowered on a rope
- How easily equipment gets to the tree
- Dead or decayed wood, which needs more care
Local conditions
MLGW asks homeowners not to attempt any tree work if power lines are near; to report a tree interfering with a line, call MLGW at 901-544-6549. The cities do not pick up what a contractor leaves behind. Memphis requires tree trimmers to remove the waste they create, Germantown makes residents responsible for making sure their contractor removes all debris, and Collierville says contractor debris has to be disposed of privately.
Questions homeowners ask us.
How much does tree removal cost?
It depends on the tree's size and what is under it. The estimate is free, and the quote comes in writing after a walk-through.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
It depends on the city and the lot. In the City of Memphis and unincorporated Shelby County, a home lot of ten acres or less is generally exempt from the tree permit. Germantown requires a permit for a public or designated heritage tree, or to remove 15 percent or more of the live trees 10 inches across at chest height, and its code reaches further than that, so check with the city first. In Collierville or Hernando, check with the town. Check your HOA too.
How do I know a tree should come down?
University of Tennessee Extension says dead trees within reach of the house should generally come down, as should a tree leaning more than 15 degrees over something it could hit, or one with half its roots damaged. Cracks, decay and weak V-shaped forks are warning signs too.
Who is responsible if a tree falls?
University of Tennessee Extension notes that if you have a hazard tree, you may be responsible for damage it causes if it falls. For your own situation, ask your insurer or an attorney.
Is the estimate really free, and what happens at the visit?
Free, with no obligation. Darren Fant walks the site, measures, looks at drainage and access, and gives a written quote. Every quote is written after seeing the yard, because access and grading differ house to house. Call or text 901.406.6005, or email [email protected].
How it’s quoted
A written number after the walk-through - no sales pitch.
Related services
Service areas
Ready when you are.
Tell us about your yard and Darren will call to set up the visit.
Or email [email protected] for a free estimate.