By the Safer Trees Melbourne team · Updated 16/09/2026
It is the first thing everyone asks, and the honest answer is that it depends on the tree and the site. What we can do is explain exactly what drives the price so you know what to expect before you call.
What tree removal costs in Melbourne
As a rough guide, small tree removal starts in the low hundreds, most standard suburban trees land somewhere in the high hundreds to low thousands, and large trees in tight spots cost more again. Two trees of the same height can be priced very differently because of what surrounds them.
The seven things that change the price
- Height and spread. A 4 metre ornamental and a 20 metre gum are different jobs entirely. Bigger trees mean more climbing, more rigging and more timber to process.
- Access. If we can park the truck beside the tree, the job moves quickly. A single narrow side gate means everything is carried or chipped in small loads.
- What is underneath. Roofs, pools, fences, glasshouses and powerlines all mean sections have to be lowered on ropes instead of dropped.
- Condition. Dead and damaged trees are less predictable and can need extra safety measures.
- Species and timber. Dense hardwoods such as many eucalypts take longer to cut and are heavier to move.
- The stump. Grinding is quoted separately so you can choose.
- Green waste. Taking everything away costs more than leaving mulch or firewood on site.
What should be included in a quote
A proper quote covers the site assessment, labour, equipment, rigging, chipping, removal of green waste (or leaving it as agreed) and clean-up. Ours are fixed prices, so the figure you approve is the figure you pay unless you add work on the day.
Four ways to keep the cost down
- Bundle jobs. Pruning, removals and stump grinding on the same visit save on setup.
- Keep the mulch. Leaving chip on site removes disposal costs.
- Clear the way. Moving cars, pot plants and outdoor furniture before we arrive saves time.
- Plan ahead. Urgent callouts cost more than work booked a week or two out.
Do not forget permits
Some trees need council approval before removal. It is worth checking first, because removing a protected tree without a permit can lead to fines. Our guide to tree removal permits in Victoria explains how to check.
How to get an accurate price
Send us a few photos of the tree, including one that shows the access, and your suburb. For many jobs that is enough to give you a firm figure. For larger or more complex removals, Andrew will come out and look. Either way the quote is free. Find out more about our tree removal service.