Let’s not beat around the bush. Big tree trimming costs money. Sometimes more than people expect. And if you’ve got a massive oak or cottonwood taking up half your yard, don’t expect it to be a quick or cheap job. But let me explain why it costs what it costs, and why doing it right actually saves you money down the road.
What Affects the Cost?
First off, size matters. The bigger the tree, the more labor, equipment, time, and risk we’re dealing with. A 70-foot tree isn’t just a taller version of a 20-footer. It’s a completely different project. You’re not just climbing higher. You’re dealing with thicker limbs, heavier branches, more spread, and more danger.
So here’s what factors into the price:
- Height and spread of the tree – The taller and wider, the more gear we need, and the more guys we have on site.
- Access to the tree – Can we get a bucket truck in? Or are we climbing from the base with ropes? Backyards with no alley or tight side gates make it harder.
- Tree condition – Is the tree healthy? Dead limbs are brittle and unpredictable. Diseased trees can be unstable and more dangerous to work on.
- Type of trimming needed – Are we just cleaning up deadwood? Or removing major limbs over your roof? The more technical the cuts, the higher the cost.
- Proximity to structures, power lines, fences, etc. – If there’s stuff we can damage, we slow down and take extra precautions. That adds cost.
Real Numbers
In Kansas City, where I work, big tree trimming usually runs between $500 and $2,500. I’ve seen it hit $4,000 or more when the tree is huge, over a roof, or tangled in power lines. If it’s something simple and accessible, it might land under a thousand. But again, big tree, big job.
Don’t fall for lowball quotes. A guy with a chainsaw and no insurance might say he’ll do it for $300. But when he drops a 200-pound limb on your fence or roof, you’re stuck with the bill. And if he gets hurt? You could be liable. We’re licensed, insured, and experienced. That’s part of what you’re paying for. Peace of mind.
When Should You Trim a Big Tree?
- Every 3 to 5 years is a solid rule of thumb for big mature trees.
- If you see dead limbs, branches hitting your house, or signs of disease, do it sooner.
- After major storms, even if the tree looks fine, get it inspected. Internal cracks and stress points aren’t always visible.
And no, trimming isn’t just for looks. It’s for safety, health, and structure. Left alone, big trees can rot from the inside out, drop limbs during wind, or start leaning toward your house. Trimming can redirect growth, reduce weight load, and help the tree survive longer.
How It’s Done
We show up with the right gear. That can mean chainsaws, pole saws, climbing saddles, ropes, rigging systems, and often a bucket truck or lift. If we’re in tight spots, we climb. We don’t guess where the branch will fall. We rig it and control the drop. That’s what separates pros from part-timers.
We don’t just hack at it. We know how to make proper pruning cuts that don’t damage the tree. We avoid flush cuts and stubs, and we follow ANSI A300 standards (not that most homeowners care about that, but trust me, it matters).
Common Mistakes People Make
- Waiting too long – People call us when half the tree’s dead or already on the ground. It’s cheaper to maintain than to clean up after a failure.
- DIY trimming on big trees – Ladders and chainsaws don’t mix well. One bad move and you’re falling or crushing your shed.
- Hiring cheap and uninsured guys – See above. It’s not worth the risk.
- Over-trimming – Some folks want half the tree gone. That stresses the tree and can kill it over time. We know how much is safe to remove.
- Ignoring trees close to the house – Don’t wait till a limb crashes into your roof in a storm. Trim it back safely, ahead of time.
What Happens If You Don’t Do It?
Big trees that aren’t trimmed properly become liabilities. Here’s what I’ve seen after 30 years doing this:
- Limbs fall in storms, crushing cars and decks.
- Whole trees lean and uproot during wet seasons.
- Gutters get clogged nonstop from overhanging limbs.
- Squirrels and raccoons use branches like highways into attics.
- Mould and moss grow on roofs from blocked sunlight.
- Neighbours complain or get hurt, and yes, you can be held responsible.
And worst of all, trees die. Overgrown, stressed, diseased trees have shorter lifespans. Trimming them correctly actually helps them live longer and stay healthy.
Bottom Line
If you’ve got a big tree in Kansas City that hasn’t been trimmed in a few years, get it looked at. Don’t wait for something to go wrong. Call a pro. Call someone licensed, insured, and with real experience. Yeah, it might cost more than you hoped. But it’s better than paying for roof repairs, fence replacement, or worse.
If you’re in my service area, Leawood, Mission Hills, Overland Park, KCMO, call me. I’ll come take a look and tell you what’s real. There will be no sales pitch, just straight-up information.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Service LLC
Located: 3020 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, MO
Phone: +1 (816) 694-6352
