10 best tree removal companies in Scottsdale, Arizona

Healthy trees contribute to your home's curb appeal and create a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can threaten your property. Tree removal may be necessary if it is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal also helps mitigate the risk of wildfires in Scottsdale. Licensed tree removal professionals in Scottsdale can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

It's essential to remove diseased trees, trees with high fall risk and trees that are damaging your foundation. However, undertaking this task yourself increases the potential for personal injury and property damage.

Tree removal specialists are well-versed in the proper cutting techniques and use specialized tools to remove trees in compliance with local regulations. By partnering with a reputable tree removal company in Scottsdale, you can be assured that the job will be completed safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Scottsdale

Look for tree removal companies in Scottsdale 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?

You should trim or remove a tree if it’s displaying evidence of severe damage or decay, or if it’s growing too close to your home. The number of decayed trees in Scottsdale is noticeably low compared to other parts of the country. If you notice any of the following signs, contact a tree removal specialist.

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

Leaning trees and trees with elevated dirt surrounding their trunk bases are at higher risk of falling. Contact a reliable contractor right away if you see either of these signs, and have the tree professionally evaluated.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, also known as danger trees, have structural defects beyond repair, making them more likely to fall. Falling trees can pose a considerable threat to vehicles, people, property and pets. Signs of structural defects include loose bark, rotten wood, large cracks, dead branches and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, don't wait to have it removed as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal companies offer a variety of services. In addition to removing trees, many companies offer the following:

• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover leaves, branches and logs away from your home.
• Stump removal: Only the stump will remain once a tree removal job is complete. A professional might recommend removing the stump altogether based on the circumstances. They may also grind the stump so the tree's remnants decompose more easily. Stump removal is more expensive than grinding, but it guarantees that the tree won't regrow.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal professional can use a wood chipper to break down the trunk and branches following the tree's removal. Afterward, you can use the chips in your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can help you fill holes left over from stump removal or plant a new tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Scottsdale

To select the right tree removal company for your needs, consider these factors.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

A licensed arborist can assess your tree's condition and offer appropriate solutions, such as restoring its health or safely removing it to mitigate fall risk. Arborists also provide guidance on pruning, planting and moving trees. Arizona does not require arborists to get a license, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam to earn certification. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, experience and knowledge to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, make sure it has comprehensive insurance, including business liability, workers compensation and general liability. This coverage can financially protect you if an accident happens. County and city governments often set their own tree removal licensing regulations. A contractor in Scottsdale doesn't need a state license if tree removal is all they offer. We recommend checking with Scottsdale building officials and your county to ensure a prospective contractor is properly licensed.

Request a tree risk assessment

Getting a tree risk assessment (TRA) helps you decide whether tree removal is a good decision and highlights the benefits of taking down a potentially hazardous tree. After you ask for a TRA, an arborist will determine your tree's fall risk and what damage could result from a fall. The arborist will first visually assess the tree from a distance to search for obvious signs of damage. They will then circle around the tree to inspect its crown, trunk and roots. Some arborists use specific equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer a free consultation and services estimate. Get estimates from at least two companies to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask family, friends and neighbors for suggestions on reputable tree removal services near you. It's also wise to check online reviews on sites like Google Reviews, BBB and Yelp.

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.