This post will outline factors that impact palm tree removal cost. If you want to remove your palm tree please see our palm tree removal guide.
Factors That Impact Palm Tree Removal Cost
- Tree size: Larger palm trees typically require more equipment and labor to remove, which can increase the cost.
- Location: The location of the palm tree can impact the difficulty of removal, with trees located in hard-to-reach areas or near structures potentially requiring more time and effort to remove.
- Access: The accessibility of the palm tree and the removal site can also impact cost, with difficult-to-reach areas requiring specialised equipment or additional labor.
- Proximity to power lines: Similar to the previous point, overhead powerlines present a hazard that requires specialist equipment such as cherry picker or crane.
- Health of the tree: A diseased or dying palm tree may be more difficult to remove and require more care during the removal process, which can increase the cost.
- Stump removal: Removing the palm tree stump can add to the cost, particularly if the stump is large or difficult to access.
- Disposal: The cost of disposing of the palm tree debris can also impact the total cost, with options such as hauling away the debris or grinding it into mulch affecting the final cost.
- Tree permit: Tree work is regulated by your local council. Each LGA has slightly different regulations, and heavy fines apply for removing a tree without permission. This fee is paid directly to the council. However, you may qualify for an exemption. More on that shortly.
Average Cost to Removal a Palm Tree
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when generating a palm tree quote. As a general guide, the palm tree removal cost can range from $500 for a small tree, and up to $3500 for a large palm tree on a difficult site.
Cost of Palm Tree Removal Permit
Some Local Government Area’s (LGA’s) require a permit to remove a palm tree. Under local regulations, some trees may be protected and require approval before being removed or pruned.
The cost of a tree permit in Sydney can vary depending on your local council and the type of permit required. Generally, the cost of a tree permit starts at few hundred dollars. Additional fees apply for each additional tree. Which can add significant cost to your tree work.
That said, there are numerous permit exemptions. It’s important to speak to an arborist, or check with your local council to determine if you qualify for an exemption.
Palm Tree Removal Cost Estimator
For a formal quotation our Arborist needs to review the site and inspect the tree. If you are just starting to plan your tree work project, you might prefer to get a palm tree removal cost estimate.
Our tree work estimator is a simple self-assessment tool that enables you to enter some basic information and generate an instant estimate online.
The estimate relies on your accurate self-assessment. Note; a site visit is still be required before we can give a formal quotation.
You can start your cost estimate via this link:
Tree Work Cost Estimator
Unexpected Palm Tree Removal Costs
This post wouldn’t be complete without mentioned some of the unexpected costs. These can occur due to several factors:
- Accident resulting in property damage
- Accident resulting in serious injury or death
- Government fines due to violating conditions of tree permit
- Government fines due to damaging or removing a protected tree
Most people would be happy saving a few hundred dollars on their tree removal. However, consider if the saving is worth it if you are then exposed to increased liability.
The tree removal industry is one of the most dangerous industries. When you hire an arborist it is your responsibility to make sure they have adequate insurance cover. Insurance protects you against:
- Property damage
- Accidental injury or death
- Workers compensation
If the insurance is invalidated for any reason, then you as the property owner are liable.
Tree work is largely unregulated. Here’s some of the problems that would invalidate an insurance claim.
- False arborist qualification claims
- The senior onsite arborist doesn’t meet the minimum requirements
- Tree work carried out by unqualified crew
- Tree workers cutting corners and do not follow the safe palm tree removal standards
- Falsely claiming to have insurance cover, but either not having the cover, or cover is invalid
In addition, not gaining permit approval can result in fines of up to $1,100,000. Here’s a quote from the Hills Shire LGA website:
If you are responsible for the removal, damage or lopping of a tree without Council’s consent you may be liable for a possible maximum fine of up to $1,100,000.
https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Services/Environmental-Management/Trees/Trees-on-Private-Land
Our message to clients is, don’t expose yourself to unnecessary risk. By all means find a good quote. And at Standfast Tree Services, we aim to provide the best service at a competitive price.
If you get quoted a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. And you really need to do your due diligence to make sure that you are not exposing yourself to liability.
If you would like a quote or to speak to an arborist, give us a call today!
