How Much Does Tree Removal Cost in Santa Barbara?
Factors such as tree size, ease of access, safety, and the number of trees requiring removal all impact the cost of tree removal. The average cost of tree removal for homeowners in Santa Barbara is about $584, although prices can run between $223 and $927 Trees in Santa Barbara tend to be on the small side, which can reduce the cost of services.
Emergency tree removal is needed in some instances, such as when a powerful storm partially pulls up a tree near your home. Property owners in Santa Barbara pay an average of $872 for emergency tree removal.
Signs That a Tree Needs to Be Removed
Even though Santa Barbara has many young trees, pest infestation, disease, and damage can still affect them. Some typical indicators that a tree needs to be removed include:
- The trunk branches off in different directions into multiple large , heavy branches
- Cracks in the trunk , especially deep cracks
- Cracking between branches , especially large heavy ones
- Rot , dead branches , missing bark or leaves , and other signs of decay
- Fungus or mold
If you spot a leaning tree or raised dirt around the base, have it assessed immediately, given the heightened risk of falling. Many neighborhoods and utility companies also have regulations for how close trees can grow — if a tree is growing too close to your home or nearby utility lines, you may need an assessment.
Do Tree Removal Companies Need to be Licensed in California?
Always check licensing before hiring a tree removal professional. In California, they must have a Tree Removal Contractor license through the Contractors State License Board. An individual can also become a licensed arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). While not required, this certification indicates that an individual is trained in all aspects of arboriculture and follows the ISA’s code of ethics. You can search for a licensed arborist or verify credentials on the ISA’s search tool. In Santa Barbara, stump removal costs around $181. Depending on the size of the stump and removal difficulty, this price can range from $206 to $333. Since not every tree removal business offers stump grinding or removal, check for these services before agreeing to a contract. The California juniper, California live oak, and canyon live oak trees are commonly found in Santa Barbara. On average, trees in the area reach 32 feet, and the average tree is 35 years old. In most places you do need a permit to remove a tree, even when it's situated on your own property. Your local tree removal expert can help you identify local zoning regulations and can assist with getting a permit. You can keep your trees healthy by regularly pruning overgrown or dead branches, keeping heavy lawn equipment or vehicles away from the roots, and topping up the soil around the base if it starts to erode. If insects are damaging your trees, think about pest control services. Yes, you should stay home during the tree removal process. Not only can you answer any questions your tree removal professional may have, but you can also identify the specific trees that require removal and feel confident that the work will be completed properly and with care. In cases where a tree is situated near your house, the tree removal specialist may request that everyone remain outdoors while the tree is being cut down. Consult your tree removal specialist before cutting, but typically, you can keep the wood from trees cut down on your property. If you don’t want to keep the wood, ask your tree removal company if they'll remove it, or contact your local waste removal department to find the best way to remove it. Be careful not to leave downed trees sitting for too long, and don’t leave cut wood against the side of your house, as both can lead to pest infestations.Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal in Santa Barbara, CA