Most single-tree removals we quote in Melbourne's east fall between $390–$1,680 for a small tree under 5 m and $980–$4,200 for a large tree of 12–20 m. A typical 5–12 m backyard tree with easy access is $650–$2,800. Height, access, how close the tree is to the house or power lines, and how many trees you're doing at once make the biggest difference.
Tree removal prices by size
These are the ranges we use in our price calculator, for one tree with easy access (an open yard and a wide gate). Every price includes cutting the tree down in sections, chipping the branches and taking the green waste away.
| Tree size | Typical height | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 5 m | $390–$1,680 |
| Medium | 5–12 m | $650–$2,800 |
| Large | 12–20 m | $980–$4,200 |
| Extra large | Over 20 m | $1,430–$6,160 |
The spread inside each band comes from the tree itself: a dense conifer or a multi-trunk gum takes far longer to take down than a single-stem tree of the same height.
What pushes the price up (or down)
- Access. A narrow side path or a tree near a fence adds about 20%. A tree over a roof, a shed or power lines adds about 50%, because every piece has to be roped down rather than dropped.
- Number of trees. Doing several trees in one visit is much cheaper per tree. Two or three trees usually cost about 1.7 times a single tree, not three times.
- Urgency. Standard bookings are within 1–2 weeks. Priority (2–4 days) adds $250. Same-day or next-day emergency work adds $600.
- Stump grinding. Not included in a removal unless you ask. Grinding a stump out below ground level is $250–$700, depending on its size.
- Dead or damaged trees. Dead wood is brittle, so we often rig it down instead of climbing out on weak limbs. That can take longer than a healthy tree of the same size.
- Power lines. If branches are close to lines, your electricity distributor may need to clear or make the line safe first. We'll tell you at the quote if that applies.
Costs that aren't ours: permits and reports
If the tree is protected, the council permit is a separate cost you pay to council. For example, the City of Boroondara charges $226.90 per tree to apply to remove a canopy or significant tree under its local law. The permit is valid for 12 months, and council aims to decide within 10 business days.
Councils sometimes ask for an arborist's report (especially if you're removing a tree because of its health or structure) and often make a permit conditional on planting a replacement tree. Factor both into your budget. Our permit guide explains when you need one.
Is pruning cheaper than removal?
Usually, yes. Pruning a tree back from a roof, removing deadwood or reducing the crown is typically $350–$1,200. If the tree is healthy and the problem is one or two limbs, pruning can solve it for less, and in some councils it doesn't need a permit when a removal would. See tree pruning and trimming.
How to get an accurate quote
A ballpark from photos is useful, but tree work should always be priced on-site. Our on-site quotes are free, and we give you a fixed price before any work starts.
- Try the price calculator for an instant range.
- Send us your suburb, a photo of the whole tree and a photo of the access (gate, side path, driveway).
- We visit, measure the tree, check whether a permit is needed and give you a fixed written price.
When you compare quotes, check what's included (green waste, stump, clean-up) and ask for proof of public liability insurance. Victoria has no state licence for arborists, so qualifications and insurance are what to ask about.
Sources
Rules change. Always confirm with your council before work starts. We checked these sources on 6 November 2026: