10 best tree removal companies in Palo Alto, California

Healthy trees boost your home's curb appeal and bring welcome shade to your yard. However, unhealthy trees can pose serious risks to your property. If a tree is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture, it may be necessary to remove it. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Turn to licensed professionals with the right equipment and experience to safely remove hazard trees from your property.

You should prioritize removing trees that are diseased, have a high fall risk, or which are compromising your foundation. However, trying to do it yourself could result in injury or property damage.

Tree removal specialists are trained in the proper cutting techniques and use specialized equipment to remove trees according to local regulations. By choosing a reputable tree removal company in Palo Alto, you can trust that the job will be completed safely and correctly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Palo Alto

Look for tree removal companies in Palo Alto with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). Use the filters below to help you find the right company for your needs.

How do you know a tree needs to be removed?

If a tree on your property has evidence of severe damage or decay, or if it's growing too close to your house, you may need to have it removed. The number of decayed trees in Palo Alto is very low compared to other parts of the country. Consider getting an estimate from a tree removal professional if any of the following apply to your tree:

The tree has damage from heavy rain or thunderstorms. The tree or its offshoots are too close to your home, garage or shed. The tree's roots are causing your home's foundation to crack or lift. The tree is dropping far more seeds, sap, leaves, branches or needles than usual. The tree has mold, diseases or pests weakening its structure. The tree's trunk or branches are cracked and won't heal. The tree is severely burned or visibly dead.

If you observe raised dirt around the base of the trunk, or if the tree is starting to lean, it's in danger of falling. If you notice either of these signs, contact a professional tree removal team right away to assess the damage and remove the tree before it can cause further damage.

What is a hazard tree?

When a tree has irreparable structural defects that put it at significant risk of falling, it becomes a hazard tree, sometimes called a danger tree. A falling tree could damage or injure people, vehicles, property and pets. A few signs that a tree has structural defects include large cracks, dead branches, loose bark, rotten wood and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, get it removed without delay.

What other tree services might you need?

Apart from removing trees, some tree removal companies offer a variety of extra services, such as the following:

• Debris removal: Tree removal usually leaves behind large debris such as logs, leaves and branches. A professional can use a dump truck or flatbed to haul away debris.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal specialist can use a wood chipper to chip the trunk and branches after the tree has been removed. Afterward, you can add the chips and mulch to your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will remain. You can grind the stump down so what's left of the tree can decompose. A more expensive option is to remove the stump altogether, which guarantees the tree won't regrow.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal companies also offer landscaping services. This could include leveling and repurposing the area where the tree stump was or planting a new tree.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Palo Alto

Follow these steps to make the best tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

An arborist is a scientific professional who can analyze your tree's requirements and advise you on the appropriate care. This can include revitalizing its health or removing it if it's in danger of falling. Arborists also provide recommendations for planting, pruning and transplanting trees. California doesn't have arborist licensing rules, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have three years of field experience and pass an exam to get certified. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, experience and knowledge to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Choose a tree removal company carrying insurance for workers compensation, business liability and general liability. A contractor's insurance policy is a safety net for you, your property and the company's team members in case something goes wrong while they work. In California, a tree removal professional must have a Tree Removal Contractor license through the Contractors State License Board. Ask potential tree removal service providers about their licensing before hiring them.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive professional advice on whether removing a tree is essential. The assessment also details the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. To perform a TRA, an arborist starts by searching for clear signs of damage from a distance. Then, they'll walk around the tree, closely inspecting the roots, trunk and crown. Sometimes, arborists use specialized gear to evaluate the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

Most tree removal companies provide complimentary consultations and estimates. Collect estimates from at least two providers and compare rates to find the best value.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask for tree removal company referrals from trusted neighbors, friends and family. Even if someone you trust refers you, take the time to read online reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp and BBB to get a well-rounded perspective before you hire.

Our methodology for selecting tree removal companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.