Let’s get straight to it: Small tree removal costs less than big tree removal. That’s obvious. But what’s not always obvious is why, and what goes into that price. Most folks think a small tree should be quick and cheap to remove. Sometimes that’s true. Sometimes it’s not.
What Counts as a “Small” Tree?
We’re talking about trees under 30 feet tall here. Think of smaller maples, dogwoods, fruit trees, or younger versions of larger species that haven’t had decades to grow out. These trees usually have thinner trunks and fewer large branches, which makes them a little easier to handle, but that doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park.
Average Cost Range for Small Tree Removal
In Kansas City, you’re looking at anywhere from $150 to $500 for a small tree. It could be a bit more or less depending on a few things. That’s the part people don’t always expect, it’s not a flat fee.
What Makes the Price Go Up or Down?
- Location of the Tree – If it’s right next to your house, a fence, or power lines, we have to be careful and precise. More time, more equipment, more cost.
- Access – If we can’t get the truck or chipper close, we’re hauling debris by hand or using smaller gear. That slows things down.
- Tree Type – Some trees are dense and heavy (like oak) even when they’re small. Others, like pine or birch, are lighter and easier to work with.
- Stump Removal – Most quotes don’t include stump grinding. That’s a separate service and usually adds $75 to $250, depending on the stump size and root system.
- Emergency Work – If you need the tree gone ASAP, say after a storm or because it’s about to fall, we charge more. We have to bump it up on our schedule.
When Should You Remove a Small Tree?
Don’t wait until it becomes a big tree. Seriously. People wait too long thinking they’ll “deal with it later.” Later, it turns into a bigger tree, deeper roots, more risk, and higher cost.
Here are some good reasons to remove a small tree now:
- It’s leaning or unstable.
- It’s growing too close to the house, driveway, or power lines.
- It’s already dead or diseased.
- You’re planning a renovation or new landscaping project.
You’d be surprised how many folks put it off and then end up paying double or triple later.
How We Remove a Small Tree
Here’s what it looks like when we do the job right:
- We inspect the area, look for hazards, and figure out how to drop the tree safely.
- We cut it down piece by piece if needed. Sometimes we can take it down in one cut, but not always.
- We haul the debris. Everything gets chipped and cleaned up unless you want to keep the wood.
- If you want stump grinding, we come in with the grinder and chew the thing down below surface level.
This takes a few hours for a small tree if everything goes smoothly. Longer if there are complications.
What People Get Wrong About Small Tree Removal
A lot of people assume it’s easy. “It’s just a little tree,” they say. Then they try to do it themselves with a chainsaw from the hardware store. And then they call us after they almost drop it on their car or their neighbour’s fence.
Don’t underestimate it. Even a small tree can do serious damage if it falls the wrong way. Plus, you’ve got underground stuff to think about, gas lines, sprinkler systems, septic tanks. We’ve seen folks hit all of them.
Another common mistake: hiring someone cheap with no insurance. If something goes wrong, you’re on the hook. That $200 “deal” can turn into a $5,000 repair bill fast.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove the Tree?
Well, nothing right away. But here’s what happens over time:
- It grows bigger.
- Roots spread.
- It starts lifting your sidewalk or cracking your foundation.
- It dies and becomes a fall hazard.
- It drops limbs during storms.
You wait long enough, and that $300 job becomes a $1,500 job. Plus potential property damage.
Final Thoughts
Small tree removal isn’t the most exciting thing in the world, but it matters. It keeps your property safe and your yard clean. And when it’s done right, it’s fast and affordable.
If you’re in Kansas City and thinking about removing a small tree, call us. We’ll take a look, give you a fair quote, and get it done safely, licensed, insured, and have been doing this for 30 years. No gimmicks. No fluff. Just honest work.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Services LLC
Kansas City, MO
