Use our intuitive calculator to get a quick estimate for removing tree stumps from your property. Simply input the details of the stump and the accessibility of your site, and we'll provide a cost breakdown.
Enter the diameter of the stump in inches.
Please enter a valid diameter.
Enter the height of the stump visible above ground in inches.
Please enter a valid height.
Shallow (up to 12 inches)
Medium (up to 24 inches)
Deep (up to 36 inches)
Very Deep (over 36 inches)
Estimate how deep the main roots extend below ground.
Easy (open area, no obstacles)
Moderate (some minor obstacles, slight slopes)
Difficult (tight spaces, steep slopes, near structures)
Consider how easy it is for machinery to reach the stump.
Harder and denser woods are more difficult to remove.
None
Minor (a few small roots visible)
Major (significant surface root system)
Indicates if surface roots will require extra work.
$0
Estimated Removal Time: 0 hours
Material Disposal Fee: $0
Complexity Surcharge: $0
Key Assumptions:
Stump Diameter: 0 in
Wood Type: Softwood
Site Accessibility: Easy
The estimated cost is calculated based on stump diameter, depth, wood type, and site accessibility. Prices typically range from $75-$300 for small stumps to $300-$1000+ for large or difficult ones. This calculator provides a guideline.
Key Factors That Affect Tree Stump Removal Costs
Several variables influence the final price you'll pay for tree stump removal. Understanding these can help you budget more effectively and discuss options with service providers. The primary drivers include:
Stump Size (Diameter & Height): This is the most significant factor. Larger stumps require more time, labor, and specialized equipment, directly increasing costs. The surface area and volume of the wood and root ball to be processed are key considerations.
Wood Type and Density: Hardwoods like oak and maple are denser and have more extensive root systems than softwoods like pine. Removing dense wood takes longer and puts more strain on machinery, leading to higher labor and equipment costs. This impacts the efficiency of grinding or excavation.
Root System Depth and Spread: The deeper and wider the root system, the more challenging and time-consuming the removal. Extensive root systems may require additional excavation or specialized equipment, increasing the overall cost. This also affects the complexity surcharge.
Site Accessibility: Difficulty accessing the stump impacts the time and effort required. If large machinery cannot easily reach the site due to narrow gates, steep slopes, delicate landscaping, or proximity to structures, labor costs will rise. This can also necessitate using smaller, less efficient equipment.
Removal Method: Different methods (grinding, excavation, chemical decomposition) have varying costs. Grinding is most common and often cost-effective for moderate stumps, while excavation might be needed for very large or problematic stumps, incurring higher equipment and labor expenses.
Disposal Fees: Removing the stump often involves hauling away the debris. Depending on local regulations and the volume of wood chips and roots, disposal fees can add a significant portion to the total bill. Some services may include this, while others itemize it.
Labor Costs: The hourly rates of arborists or landscaping professionals vary by region and experience. The complexity and time required for the job directly translate to labor expenses.
Geographical Location: Costs for services, including tree stump removal, can differ significantly based on your geographic location due to varying labor rates, material costs, and local market demand.
This tree stump removal cost calculator aims to incorporate most of these variables to give you a realistic estimate. For an accurate quote, always consult with local professionals.
How to Use This Tree Stump Removal Cost Calculator
Our tree stump removal cost calculator is designed for simplicity and speed, providing you with an estimated cost range quickly. Follow these easy steps:
Measure the Stump: Accurately measure the diameter of the tree stump at its widest point, above ground. Also, note the height of the stump visible above the soil.
Estimate Root Depth: Consider how deep the main root ball likely extends. Shallow roots are easier to remove than deep, extensive ones.
Assess Site Accessibility: Evaluate how easy it is for a large piece of equipment (like a stump grinder) to reach the stump without damaging your property.
Identify Wood Type: Determine if the tree was a softwood (like pine) or a hardwood (like oak). Denser woods are more challenging.
Note Surface Roots: Observe if there are significant surface roots spreading out from the stump that will also need attention.
Input Data: Enter these details into the corresponding fields in the calculator.
View Results: Click "Calculate Cost" to see your estimated total cost, breakdown of fees, and an estimate of the time required for the job. The calculator also provides key assumptions used in its calculation.
Reading Your Results: The main highlighted number is your estimated total cost. The sub-results provide insights into removal time, potential disposal fees, and any added complexity surcharges. Review the key assumptions to ensure they align with your situation.
Decision Making: Use these estimates to compare quotes from different tree service providers. If the estimated cost is higher than expected, consider if a less invasive method like chemical decomposition might be suitable for your needs, though this takes much longer.
Tree Stump Removal Cost Calculator: Formula and Explanation
The tree stump removal cost calculator uses a tiered pricing model influenced by several key factors. It aims to provide a realistic estimate rather than a precise quote.
Mathematical Explanation
The core of the calculation involves a base cost derived from the stump's diameter, multiplied by factors representing wood density and accessibility, and then adjusted by potential surcharges for depth and surface roots.
Formula Outline:
Estimated Cost = (Base Cost per Inch Diameter * Stump Diameter) * Wood Density Factor * Accessibility Factor + Disposal Fee + Complexity Surcharge
Breakdown of Components:
Base Cost per Inch Diameter: A standard rate applied per inch of stump diameter. This rate varies slightly based on wood type.
Wood Density Factor: Multiplies the base cost. Softwoods have a factor closer to 1.0, while dense hardwoods have a higher factor (e.g., 1.3-1.5).
Accessibility Factor: Adjusts the cost based on site access. Easy access might be 1.0, moderate 1.15, and difficult 1.3.
Disposal Fee: A flat or volume-based fee for removing wood chips and debris. Estimated based on average costs.
Complexity Surcharge: An additional percentage or flat fee applied for very deep roots or significant surface root spread, reflecting increased labor and time.
Estimated Removal Time: Calculated based on diameter, wood type, and depth, typically in hours.
Calculator Variables and Ranges
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Stump Diameter
The widest diameter of the stump above ground.
Inches
6 – 60+
Stump Height
Height of the stump visible above the ground.
Inches
1 – 30+
Root Depth
Estimated depth of the main root system.
Inches
12 – 48+
Accessibility
Ease of access for removal equipment.
Categorical (Easy, Moderate, Difficult)
N/A
Wood Type
Density and hardness of the wood.
Categorical (Softwood, Hardwood, Dense Hardwood)
N/A
Surface Roots
Extent of roots visible on the surface.
Categorical (None, Minor, Major)
N/A
Estimated Cost
The total estimated cost for removal.
USD ($)
$75 – $1,500+
Removal Time
Estimated labor time for the job.
Hours
0.5 – 8+
Tree Stump Removal Cost vs. Diameter
This chart illustrates how the estimated cost of tree stump removal typically increases with the diameter of the stump. Note that other factors like wood type and accessibility also play a crucial role.
Practical Examples of Tree Stump Removal Costs
Let's look at a couple of scenarios to see how the tree stump removal cost calculator might work in practice:
Example 1: Standard Oak Stump Removal
A homeowner needs to remove a moderately sized oak stump from their backyard. The stump is about 20 inches in diameter and 10 inches tall. The roots appear to go down about 24 inches. Access to the stump is straightforward, though not completely wide open. There are a few surface roots visible.
Stump Diameter: 20 inches
Stump Height: 10 inches
Root Depth: 24 inches (Medium)
Accessibility: Moderate
Wood Type: Hardwood (Oak)
Surface Roots: Minor
Based on these inputs, the calculator might estimate:
Estimated Cost: ~$450
Estimated Removal Time: 2 hours
Material Disposal Fee: ~$75
Complexity Surcharge: ~$50 (due to depth and minor surface roots)
Interpretation: This cost reflects the standard difficulty of removing a hardwood stump of this size, with moderate accessibility and some root considerations. The homeowner should expect quotes in this range.
Example 2: Large Pine Stump with Difficult Access
A property owner needs a large pine stump removed near a fence and a garden shed. The stump measures 36 inches in diameter and is about 15 inches high. The root system is extensive, likely going down over 36 inches. Access is difficult due to proximity to structures and the need to protect landscaping.
Stump Diameter: 36 inches
Stump Height: 15 inches
Root Depth: 48 inches (Very Deep)
Accessibility: Difficult
Wood Type: Softwood (Pine)
Surface Roots: Major
Using the calculator with these inputs might yield:
Estimated Cost: ~$950
Estimated Removal Time: 4 hours
Material Disposal Fee: ~$150
Complexity Surcharge: ~$150 (due to very deep roots, major surface roots, and difficult access)
Interpretation: The higher cost is driven by the large diameter, very deep roots, difficult access, and significant surface roots. Removing such a stump requires more time, careful maneuvering, and potentially more effort to manage the debris. Getting multiple detailed quotes is crucial here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tree Stump Removal Costs
What is the average cost to remove a tree stump?
The average cost typically ranges from $75 to $300 for small stumps (under 10 inches) and $300 to $1,000 or more for larger stumps (over 20 inches) or those requiring difficult removal methods. Our tree stump removal cost calculator provides a more personalized estimate.
Is stump grinding cheaper than excavation?
Yes, stump grinding is generally significantly cheaper than full excavation. Grinding removes the visible stump and surface roots, turning it into mulch. Excavation involves removing the entire stump and root ball, which is more labor-intensive and requires heavy equipment, thus costing more.
How long does tree stump removal take?
The time required varies greatly. Small, soft stumps might take less than an hour to grind. Larger, denser hardwood stumps, especially those with extensive root systems or difficult access, can take several hours. Our calculator provides an estimated removal time.
Do I need to be present when the service is performed?
It's often not strictly necessary for you to be present, especially if you've already agreed on the scope of work and payment terms. However, it's recommended, particularly for the initial consultation or if there are specific access instructions or property considerations.
Can I remove a stump myself?
Yes, for smaller stumps, DIY methods like digging, burning, or using chemical removers are possible. However, these can be very labor-intensive, time-consuming, and sometimes less effective than professional services. Renting professional equipment like a stump grinder also carries risks if not operated correctly.
What happens to the wood chips after grinding?
Typically, the wood chips created during grinding are left on-site as mulch, which can be beneficial for landscaping. If you prefer them removed, most professionals offer this service for an additional fee, which is factored into our tree stump removal cost calculator's disposal estimate.
How deep does a stump grinder go?
Professional stump grinders can typically grind a stump down to a depth of 6 to 12 inches below the soil surface. Some heavy-duty machines can go deeper. This is usually sufficient to remove the visible stump and the main bulk of the root ball.
Should I get multiple quotes?
Absolutely. It is highly recommended to obtain quotes from at least 2-3 reputable local landscaping companies or arborists. This helps ensure you're getting a competitive price and allows you to compare services, methods, and insurance coverage.
Find Local Tree Removal ServicesConnect with qualified professionals in your area for accurate quotes and expert advice on tree and stump removal.
Landscaping Project Cost EstimatorGet an idea of costs for various landscaping projects, including stump removal as part of a larger job.
Yard Waste Disposal GuideLearn about the best practices and costs associated with disposing of yard waste, including tree stumps and debris.
Tree Health Assessment ToolBefore removing a stump, understand the health of surrounding trees. This tool helps identify potential issues.
DIY Stump Removal vs. ProfessionalA detailed comparison of the pros and cons, costs, and safety considerations of removing stumps yourself versus hiring professionals.
var chartInstance = null; // Global variable to hold chart instance
function getInputValue(id) {
var input = document.getElementById(id);
var value = parseFloat(input.value);
return isNaN(value) ? 0 : value;
}
function getSelectValue(id) {
var select = document.getElementById(id);
return select.value;
}
function updateErrorVisibility(id, show) {
var errorElement = document.getElementById(id + "Error");
if (errorElement) {
errorElement.style.display = show ? 'block' : 'none';
}
}
function validateInputs() {
var diameter = getInputValue('stumpDiameter');
var height = getInputValue('stumpHeight');
var isValid = true;
if (diameter <= 0) {
updateErrorVisibility('stumpDiameter', true);
isValid = false;
} else {
updateErrorVisibility('stumpDiameter', false);
}
if (height 24) {
depthFactor = 1.2; // Deeper roots increase complexity
depthSurcharge = (diameter / 10) * 15; // Add cost based on size and depth
}
if (depth > 36) {
depthFactor = 1.35;
depthSurcharge += (diameter / 10) * 25;
}
var rootFactor = 1.0;
var rootSurcharge = 0;
if (additionalRoots === 'minor') {
rootFactor = 1.1;
rootSurcharge = (diameter / 10) * 5;
} else if (additionalRoots === 'major') {
rootFactor = 1.25;
rootSurcharge = (diameter / 10) * 10;
removalTimeRate += 0.5; // More time for major roots
}
var estimatedTime = removalTimeRate * diameter;
// Adjust time for accessibility and depth/root complexity
estimatedTime = estimatedTime * accessibilityTimeMultiplier * Math.max(depthFactor, rootFactor);
estimatedTime = Math.max(0.5, estimatedTime); // Minimum 0.5 hours
var laborRatePerHour = 100; // Average labor/machine cost per hour
var disposalRatePerCubicFoot = 5; // Estimate for disposal
var cubicFootPerInchDiameter = 0.05; // Rough conversion for volume
var estimatedVolume = diameter * diameter * height * 0.001 * cubicFootPerInchDiameter; // Simplified volume estimate
var disposalFee = estimatedVolume * disposalRatePerCubicFoot;
disposalFee = Math.max(50, disposalFee); // Minimum disposal fee
var baseCost = (baseRatePerInch * diameter) * woodFactor * accessibilityFactor;
var complexity = depthSurcharge + rootSurcharge;
var laborCost = estimatedTime * laborRatePerHour;
var estimatedTotalCost = baseCost + laborCost + disposalFee + complexity;
estimatedTotalCost = Math.max(75, estimatedTotalCost); // Minimum removal cost
document.getElementById('estimatedCost').innerText = '$' + estimatedTotalCost.toFixed(2);
document.getElementById('removalTime').innerText = estimatedTime.toFixed(1) + ' hours';
document.getElementById('disposalFee').innerText = '$' + disposalFee.toFixed(2);
document.getElementById('complexitySurcharge').innerText = '$' + complexity.toFixed(2);
// Update assumptions
document.getElementById('assumedDiameter').innerText = diameter + ' in';
document.getElementById('assumedWoodType').innerText = document.querySelector('#woodType option[value="' + woodType + '"]').text;
document.getElementById('assumedAccessibility').innerText = document.querySelector('#accessibility option[value="' + accessibility + '"]').text;
updateChart();
}
function resetCalculator() {
document.getElementById('stumpDiameter').value = 18;
document.getElementById('stumpHeight').value = 12;
document.getElementById('stumpDepth').value = '24';
document.getElementById('accessibility').value = 'moderate';
document.getElementById('woodType').value = 'hardwood';
document.getElementById('additionalRoots').value = 'minor';
// Clear errors
updateErrorVisibility('stumpDiameter', false);
updateErrorVisibility('stumpHeight', false);
calculateCost();
}
function copyResults() {
var estimatedCost = document.getElementById('estimatedCost').innerText;
var removalTime = document.getElementById('removalTime').innerText;
var disposalFee = document.getElementById('disposalFee').innerText;
var complexitySurcharge = document.getElementById('complexitySurcharge').innerText;
var assumedDiameter = document.getElementById('assumedDiameter').innerText;
var assumedWoodType = document.getElementById('assumedWoodType').innerText;
var assumedAccessibility = document.getElementById('assumedAccessibility').innerText;
var resultText = "Estimated Tree Stump Removal Cost:\n";
resultText += "———————————-\n";
resultText += "Total Estimated Cost: " + estimatedCost + "\n";
resultText += "Estimated Removal Time: " + removalTime + "\n";
resultText += "Estimated Disposal Fee: " + disposalFee + "\n";
resultText += "Complexity Surcharge: " + complexitySurcharge + "\n\n";
resultText += "Key Assumptions:\n";
resultText += "Stump Diameter: " + assumedDiameter + "\n";
resultText += "Wood Type: " + assumedWoodType + "\n";
resultText += "Site Accessibility: " + assumedAccessibility + "\n";
resultText += "\nCalculated using the Tree Stump Removal Cost Calculator.";
// Use navigator.clipboard for modern browsers
if (navigator.clipboard) {
navigator.clipboard.writeText(resultText).then(function() {
alert('Results copied to clipboard!');
}).catch(function(err) {
console.error('Failed to copy text: ', err);
fallbackCopyTextToClipboard(resultText);
});
} else {
fallbackCopyTextToClipboard(resultText);
}
}
function fallbackCopyTextToClipboard(text) {
var textArea = document.createElement("textarea");
textArea.value = text;
textArea.style.position = "fixed"; // Avoid scrolling to bottom
textArea.style.left = "-9999px";
textArea.style.top = "-9999px";
document.body.appendChild(textArea);
textArea.focus();
textArea.select();
try {
var successful = document.execCommand('copy');
var msg = successful ? 'successful' : 'unsuccessful';
console.log('Fallback: Copying text command was ' + msg);
alert('Results copied to clipboard!');
} catch (err) {
console.error('Fallback: Oops, unable to copy', err);
alert('Could not copy results. Please copy manually.');
}
document.body.removeChild(textArea);
}
// Charting Functionality
function updateChart() {
var ctx = document.getElementById('costVsDiameterChart').getContext('2d');
if (chartInstance) {
chartInstance.destroy(); // Destroy previous chart instance
}
var diameters = [6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48]; // Sample diameters
var costs = [];
var avgTimes = [];
var originalValues = {
stumpDiameter: document.getElementById('stumpDiameter').value,
stumpHeight: document.getElementById('stumpHeight').value,
stumpDepth: document.getElementById('stumpDepth').value,
accessibility: document.getElementById('accessibility').value,
woodType: document.getElementById('woodType').value,
additionalRoots: document.getElementById('additionalRoots').value
};
diameters.forEach(function(diam) {
// Temporarily set inputs for calculation
document.getElementById('stumpDiameter').value = diam;
// Use default values for other inputs to simulate a baseline scenario (e.g., moderate conditions)
document.getElementById('stumpHeight').value = 12;
document.getElementById('stumpDepth').value = '24';
document.getElementById('accessibility').value = 'moderate';
document.getElementById('woodType').value = 'hardwood';
document.getElementById('additionalRoots').value = 'minor';
// Re-validate and calculate (ignoring error messages for chart generation)
var diameterVal = getInputValue('stumpDiameter');
var heightVal = getInputValue('stumpHeight');
var depthVal = parseInt(getSelectValue('stumpDepth'));
var accessibilityVal = getSelectValue('accessibility');
var woodTypeVal = getSelectValue('woodType');
var additionalRootsVal = getSelectValue('additionalRoots');
var baseRatePerInch = 10;
var removalTimeRate = 0.2;
var woodFactor = 1.0;
if (woodTypeVal === 'hardwood') { woodFactor = 1.3; removalTimeRate += 0.1; }
else if (woodTypeVal === 'dense') { woodFactor = 1.6; removalTimeRate += 0.25; }
var accessibilityFactor = 1.0;
var accessibilityTimeMultiplier = 1.0;
if (accessibilityVal === 'moderate') { accessibilityFactor = 1.15; accessibilityTimeMultiplier = 1.1; }
else if (accessibilityVal === 'difficult') { accessibilityFactor = 1.35; accessibilityTimeMultiplier = 1.3; }
var depthFactor = 1.0;
var depthSurcharge = 0;
if (depthVal > 24) { depthFactor = 1.2; depthSurcharge = (diameterVal / 10) * 15; }
if (depthVal > 36) { depthFactor = 1.35; depthSurcharge += (diameterVal / 10) * 25; }
var rootFactor = 1.0;
var rootSurcharge = 0;
if (additionalRootsVal === 'minor') { rootFactor = 1.1; rootSurcharge = (diameterVal / 10) * 5; }
else if (additionalRootsVal === 'major') { rootFactor = 1.25; rootSurcharge = (diameterVal / 10) * 10; removalTimeRate += 0.5; }
var estimatedTime = removalTimeRate * diameterVal;
estimatedTime = estimatedTime * accessibilityTimeMultiplier * Math.max(depthFactor, rootFactor);
estimatedTime = Math.max(0.5, estimatedTime);
var laborRatePerHour = 100;
var disposalRatePerCubicFoot = 5;
var cubicFootPerInchDiameter = 0.05;
var estimatedVolume = diameterVal * diameterVal * 12 * 0.001 * cubicFootPerInchDiameter; // Use fixed height 12 for chart consistency
var disposalFee = estimatedVolume * disposalRatePerCubicFoot;
disposalFee = Math.max(50, disposalFee);
var baseCost = (baseRatePerInch * diameterVal) * woodFactor * accessibilityFactor;
var complexity = depthSurcharge + rootSurcharge;
var laborCost = estimatedTime * laborRatePerHour;
var estimatedTotalCost = baseCost + laborCost + disposalFee + complexity;
estimatedTotalCost = Math.max(75, estimatedTotalCost);
costs.push(estimatedTotalCost);
avgTimes.push(estimatedTime);
});
// Restore original input values
document.getElementById('stumpDiameter').value = originalValues.stumpDiameter;
document.getElementById('stumpHeight').value = originalValues.stumpHeight;
document.getElementById('stumpDepth').value = originalValues.stumpDepth;
document.getElementById('accessibility').value = originalValues.accessibility;
document.getElementById('woodType').value = originalValues.woodType;
document.getElementById('additionalRoots').value = originalValues.additionalRoots;
chartInstance = new Chart(ctx, {
type: 'bar', // Changed to bar for better visibility of discrete points
data: {
labels: diameters.map(d => d + ' in'),
datasets: [{
label: 'Estimated Cost ($)',
data: costs,
backgroundColor: 'rgba(0, 74, 153, 0.6)',
borderColor: 'rgba(0, 74, 153, 1)',
borderWidth: 1,
yAxisID: 'y-axis-cost' // Assign to cost y-axis
},
{
label: 'Avg. Removal Time (Hrs)',
data: avgTimes,
backgroundColor: 'rgba(40, 167, 69, 0.6)',
borderColor: 'rgba(40, 167, 69, 1)',
borderWidth: 1,
yAxisID: 'y-axis-time' // Assign to time y-axis
}]
},
options: {
responsive: true,
maintainAspectRatio: false,
scales: {
x: {
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Stump Diameter (inches)'
}
},
'y-axis-cost': { // Use the ID defined in datasets
type: 'linear',
position: 'left',
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Estimated Cost ($)'
},
ticks: {
beginAtZero: true,
callback: function(value, index, values) {
if (Math.floor(value) === value) {
return '$' + value;
}
}
}
},
'y-axis-time': { // Use the ID defined in datasets
type: 'linear',
position: 'right',
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Average Time (Hours)'
},
grid: {
drawOnChartArea: false, // Only display grids for the primary y-axis
},
ticks: {
beginAtZero: true
}
}
},
plugins: {
tooltip: {
mode: 'index',
intersect: false,
callbacks: {
label: function(tooltipItem) {
var label = tooltipItem.dataset.label || ";
if (label) {
label += ': ';
}
if (tooltipItem.dataset.yAxisID === 'y-axis-cost') {
label += '$' + tooltipItem.raw.toFixed(2);
} else {
label += tooltipItem.raw.toFixed(1) + ' hrs';
}
return label;
}
}
},
legend: {
display: true,
position: 'top',
}
}
}
});
}
// FAQ Toggle
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
var faqItems = document.querySelectorAll('.faq-item');
faqItems.forEach(function(item) {
var question = item.querySelector('.question');
var answer = item.querySelector('.answer');
question.addEventListener('click', function() {
item.classList.toggle('open');
answer.style.display = item.classList.contains('open') ? 'block' : 'none';
});
});
// Initial calculation and chart update on page load
calculateCost();
// Ensure chart is rendered after DOM is fully loaded and canvas is available
setTimeout(updateChart, 100); // Small delay to ensure canvas is ready
});