Tree removal, trimming, and stump grinding companies serving Seattle, Washington. ISA-certified arborists and local tree permit info.
Last updated: April 2026 · Cost data from RSMeans & BLS regional indices · Permit data from official city .gov sources
Local context for Seattle
Seattle permits are issued by the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) through the Seattle Services Portal. Seattle enforces the 2021 Seattle Energy Code, which effectively eliminates fossil fuels for most space and water heating in new commercial and multifamily construction and requires electrification readiness on all new construction. Seattle also sits in high seismic zone D with specific lateral-bracing amendments.
Tree permits and right-of-way work filed through Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) · official portal
Seattle, WA
ISA Certified arborist company in Seattle offering comprehensive tree care, pruning, and consulting.
Seattle, WA
ISA Certified tree service in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle providing removal, trimming, and emergency care.
Seattle, WA
ISA Certified tree care company serving Seattle and the Eastside with removal, trimming, and pruning services.
Seattle, WA
ISA Certified tree care professionals in Seattle offering expert removal, trimming, and stump grinding.
Are you a tree service company in Seattle?
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A short checklist of things to verify before you sign a contract or hand over a deposit. These apply whether you find your contractor here, on Angi, or anywhere else.
Every contractor we list is verified against public records, but verification is not a quality guarantee. Run through this checklist on any contractor you are seriously considering.
Follow these steps to find a reliable, licensed tree service company in the Seattle, Washington area.
Hire an ISA Certified Arborist
ISA certification means the arborist has passed rigorous exams on tree biology, care, and safety practices.
Verify insurance coverage
Tree work is high-risk. Confirm they carry both general liability ($1M+) and workers compensation insurance.
Get 3+ written estimates
Estimates should detail the scope, equipment used, debris removal, and stump treatment. Avoid door-to-door solicitors.
Check for tree removal permits
Many cities protect trees over a certain diameter. Fines for unpermitted removal can exceed $10,000 per tree.
Ask about cleanup and debris removal
Confirm whether the price includes hauling away all branches, logs, and wood chips or if that costs extra.
Never pay more than 50% upfront
Reputable tree services collect a deposit (if any) and final payment upon completion. Avoid companies demanding full payment upfront.
Average tree service costs in Seattle based on Washington labor rates. Prices vary by tree size, species, accessibility, and scope of work.
| Service | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tree Trimming (Small, under 25 ft) | $254 | $325 | $429 |
| Tree Trimming (Medium, 25-50 ft) | $484 | $620 | $818 |
| Tree Trimming (Large, 50-75 ft) | $828 | $1,062 | $1,402 |
| Tree Removal (Small) | $414 | $531 | $701 |
| Tree Removal (Medium) | $828 | $1,062 | $1,402 |
| Tree Removal (Large) | $1,657 | $2,124 | $2,804 |
| Tree Removal (Very Large, 75+ ft) | $3,221 | $4,130 | $5,452 |
| Stump Grinding (18" diameter) | $276 | $354 | $467 |
| Emergency Removal | $2,301 | $2,950 | $3,894 |
Costs are estimates based on Washington regional data. Actual prices vary by tree species, accessibility, and site conditions. Emergency work typically costs 50-100% more.
Get a Personalized EstimateMany cities require permits to remove trees over a certain size, especially heritage or protected species. In Seattle, removing a protected tree without a permit can result in fines exceeding $10,000 per tree.
Before removing any tree, contact the Seattle urban forestry department or planning office to check if a permit is required. Your tree service company should also be familiar with local tree ordinances.
Check tree permit requirementsTree removal in Seattle typically costs $414-$701 for small trees (under 25 ft), $828-$1,402 for medium trees (25-50 ft), and $1,657-$2,804 for large trees (50-75 ft). Very large trees (75+ ft) can cost $3,221-$5,452. Emergency removal typically costs 50-100% more.
Tree trimming in Seattle averages $325 for small trees, $620 for medium trees, and $1,062 for large trees. Costs vary based on tree species, accessibility, and scope of work. Hardwood trees cost about 15% more than softwoods due to denser wood.
Many cities require permits to remove trees over a certain size, especially heritage or protected species. Fines for removing protected trees without a permit can exceed $10,000 per tree. Contact the Seattle urban forestry or planning department to check requirements before removing any tree, or check our tree permit guide.
An ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist has passed a comprehensive exam on tree care, biology, and safety, and maintains continuing education. Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist in Seattle means you're getting someone with verified expertise in tree health assessment, proper pruning techniques, and safe removal practices.
The best time for most tree trimming in Washington is during the dormant season (late fall through early spring) when trees are not actively growing. This reduces stress on the tree, lowers disease risk, and is often less expensive due to lower demand. However, dead or hazardous branches should be removed immediately regardless of season.
Stump grinding in Seattle averages $354 for an 18-inch diameter stump. Most companies charge $3-$5 per inch of diameter. Additional stumps are often discounted 30-40%. Deep grinding (for building or replanting) costs about 65% more than standard depth.
The 2021 Seattle Energy Code effectively requires heat pumps for space heating in most new construction. Gas is still allowed in existing homes for replacement, but new construction has to meet the all-electric or equivalent performance paths.
Often yes. Seattle Municipal Code 25.11 protects Exceptional Trees and many Tier 2 trees based on species and size. SDCI and the Office of the Tree Service Provider Registration handle approval. Removing a protected tree without approval can trigger fines and replacement requirements.
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Many cities require permits to remove trees over a certain size. Fines can exceed $10,000 per tree.
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