Let’s get right into it. Tree removal cost per foot, yeah, that’s a thing. It’s one of the most common ways pricing is calculated for this kind of work, especially when you’re dealing with larger trees. And if you’re calling around for quotes in Kansas City, or anywhere for that matter, and not hearing the price per foot come up, you’re probably not getting the full picture.
What “Per Foot” Actually Means
When a tree service like mine talks about charging per foot, we’re usually talking about the height of the tree. Not the trunk width, not the root system, not how far the limbs stretch over your roof. Straight height. A 30-foot tree will almost always cost less to remove than a 70-foot one. Makes sense, right? More height = more risk, more labor, more cleanup.
Typical cost ranges vary, but here’s a basic breakdown you can use as a reference:
- Small tree (under 30 feet) – $10 to $15 per foot
- Medium tree (30–60 feet) – $12 to $18 per foot
- Large tree (60–80 feet) – $15 to $25 per foot
- Very large tree (80+ feet) – $20 to $35 per foot
So yeah, you can do the math. An 80-foot tree at $25 per foot? That’s two grand, easy. And that’s not including stump grinding or debris hauling, unless we talked about bundling it.
Why Cost Per Foot Matters
Here’s the thing: charging by the foot gives you a rough way to estimate what you’re getting into. It’s transparent. It gives homeowners a ballpark before they even call. But it’s not everything. You can’t just grab a tape measure and assume the price is locked in.
A tall tree over open ground? Easier job. A medium tree leaning toward your garage with power lines tangled in the limbs? Suddenly, that “per foot” rate isn’t so cut-and-dry anymore.
What I’m saying is this: per-foot pricing is a starting point, not the whole story. And if someone gives you a flat rate without even asking for pictures or checking it out in person? Be careful. That’s how folks end up getting burned.
How We Do It
At Omar Tree Services, here’s what we factor in when figuring out the cost:
- Height of the tree – Like we said, price per foot starts here.
- Tree condition – Dead, diseased, or storm-damaged trees can be dangerous. They’re unpredictable. That adds to labor and risk.
- Location – Is the tree near your house? Power lines? Fence? We have to rig it, rope it down, maybe even use a crane.
- Access – Can we back a truck close to it, or are we hiking gear through your backyard?
- Cleanup – Some people want the whole thing gone: limbs, trunk, sawdust, stump. Others just want it cut down and left. Cost changes depending on what you need.
Common Mistakes People Make
Let’s just be blunt here. These are the mistakes I see all the time:
- Assuming the stump is included. It’s not. Stump grinding is usually a separate service, priced either per inch or per stump.
- Not disclosing what’s around the tree. If we show up and see wires, fences, or fragile landscaping that wasn’t mentioned, that’s going to affect the quote.
- Waiting too long. Dead trees don’t get better. The longer you wait, the more brittle and dangerous they get. That means more risk, which means higher cost. I’ve had jobs go up by 40% just because the tree rotted out and became too dangerous to climb.
- Hiring uninsured crews. Look, we’re licensed and insured. That matters. If someone gets hurt on your property and they’re not covered? That problem becomes your problem.
What Happens If You Don’t Do It Right
I’ve seen it all. People are trying to DIY a 40-foot tree with a ladder and a chainsaw they bought on sale. Or hiring a guy with a pickup and no harness who drops a trunk right through their shed.
You mess up tree removal, and you’re not just risking property damage, you’re risking lives. Yours, your neighbours’, mine. That’s why we train, gear up, and go through the right steps every single time.
Also, if you hire someone who doesn’t remove the tree correctly, you could end up with:
- A rotting stump that draws pests
- Sinkholes or root damage underground
- Dangerous hanging limbs left behind
- City code violations (yeah, Kansas City does fine people for neglecting dangerous trees)
Bottom Line
Here’s what I tell people: Tree removal is never one-size-fits-all. But starting with “per foot” gives you a solid foundation to understand the cost.
If you want an actual quote, we’ll come out, take a look, and give it to you straight. No hidden fees. No bait and switch. Just solid work from a crew that’s been doing this for 30 years.
Want to talk about a tree that needs to go? Call me directly at (816) 694-6352 or head to Omar Tree Services LLC. I’ll take care of you.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Service LLC
Serving Kansas City Homeowners Since 2014
