How Much Does a Tree Service Professional Cost in Ontario?
Tree removal in Ontario typically costs $300–$800 for a small tree under 25 ft, $800–$2,500 for a medium tree (25–50 ft) and $2,500–$5,000 for a large one (50–80 ft). Very large trees over 80 ft can reach $12,000, and a tree close to a house may need a crane, which adds $500–$2,000. Stump grinding is usually extra, at $150–$500 per stump, and trimming runs $250–$1,000 per tree.
ProScore estimate, figures as of March 20, 2026. Ontario-wide ranges compiled by ProScore — not measured from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey.
Quick Cost Summary
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Small Tree Removal (under 25 ft) | $300 | $800 |
| Medium Tree Removal (25–50 ft) | $800 | $2,500 |
| Large Tree Removal (50–80 ft) | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| Very Large Tree Removal (80+ ft) | $5,000 | $12,000 |
| Tree Trimming/Pruning | $250 | $1,000 |
| Stump Grinding | $150 | $500 |
| Emergency Storm Damage | $500 | $3,000 |
| Lot Clearing (per acre) | $3,000 | $8,000 |
| Crane Rental (large removals near structures) | $500 | $2,000 |
| Restricted-Access Surcharge (hand-carry) | $500 | $1,500 |
| Full Debris Removal & Wood Disposal | $200 | $500 |
ProScore estimate, figures as of March 20, 2026. Ontario-wide ranges compiled by ProScore — not measured from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey.
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How Ontario tree service companies compare on ProScore
ProScore lists 1,323 tree service companies in Ontario, and has published a ProScore for 1,205 of them. 596 of those reach Trusted (70+) or higher. Google stars alone do not separate them: 856 of the 1,205 scored average 4.5 stars or higher on Google, but only 596 reach Trusted on ProScore.
Counted from ProScore's current listings, refreshed daily. How ProScore scores
Fees, rebates and rules from official sources
- Job Bank puts the median wage of an arborist in Ontario at $31.05 an hour (low $22.00, high $42.82; 2023–2024). That is the wage the worker is paid, not the rate a business bills. Government of Canada, Job Bank
- In Toronto, injuring or removing a private tree 30 centimetres or more in diameter, measured 1.4 metres up the trunk, needs a permit under the City's Tree Protection By-law. City of Toronto
- Toronto's 2026 permit application fee is $145.87 per private tree, or $436.39 per tree when the work is tied to construction. City of Toronto
- Mississauga requires a permit to injure or remove any private tree 15 cm or more in diameter, dead or dying trees included; the base permit fee is $399.77 and each additional healthy tree is $139.72, HST included. City of Mississauga
What Affects the Cost?
Tree Size & Species
A 30-foot birch is straightforward. An 80-foot oak near a house may require a crane ($500–$2,000 rental) and cost 5–10x more.
Proximity to Structures
Trees close to homes, power lines, or fences require careful rigging and sectional removal, significantly increasing labour time.
Accessibility
If equipment cannot reach the tree (fenced backyard, steep terrain), crews must carry debris by hand, adding $500–$1,500 to the cost.
Disposal & Cleanup
Basic cleanup is usually included. Full debris removal and wood disposal adds $200–$500. Some companies offer firewood splitting as an offset.
Licensing in Ontario
Ontario does not require a specific licence for tree work, but ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification is the industry standard. Always verify WSIB coverage and liability insurance — tree work is high-risk, and an uninsured crew on your property is a serious liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove a tree in Ontario?
Small trees (under 25 ft) cost $300–$800. Medium trees run $800–$2,500. Very large trees (80+ ft) or trees near structures can cost $5,000–$12,000 or more due to specialized equipment.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Many Ontario municipalities have tree bylaws. Toronto, Mississauga, Markham, and others require permits for removing trees above a certain diameter. Check with your city first.
When is the best time to trim trees?
Late winter to early spring (February–April) is ideal for most species. Trees are dormant, visibility is better, and disease transmission risk is lower.
How much does tree trimming cost?
Trimming or pruning one tree typically costs $250–$1,000. Tree workers who bill by the hour charge $75–$150 an hour, and a full crew costs more.
How much does stump grinding cost?
Stump grinding usually costs $150–$500 per stump and is often quoted separately from the removal, so ask whether it is included. A medium tree removed and its stump ground typically comes to $800–$2,500 plus $150–$500.
How much does it cost to remove a large tree?
A large tree (50–80 ft) typically costs $2,500–$5,000 to remove, and a very large one over 80 ft $5,000–$12,000. Clearing a whole lot is priced by the acre instead, at $3,000–$8,000.
What does emergency or storm tree removal cost?
Emergency storm-damage work usually costs $500–$3,000 per job, depending on the size of the tree and how hard it is to reach.
Should I hire an ISA-certified arborist?
For any work beyond basic trimming, yes. ISA-certified arborists understand tree biology, proper pruning techniques, and can identify disease or structural issues.
Disclaimer: All prices shown are ProScore estimates for Ontario, figures as of March 20, 2026. They are not drawn from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey. Actual costs vary based on job complexity, location, materials, and contractor. Always get 2–3 written quotes from professionals before committing. ProScore is not responsible for pricing accuracy — use these figures as a starting point for budgeting.
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Tree Service Professional Costs by City
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Sources
- Government of Canada, Job Bank, Arborist in Ontario: wages (2023–2024 wages, updated November 19, 2025). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- City of Toronto, When to apply for a tree or ravine permit. Accessed October 19, 2026.
- City of Toronto, Application to injure or remove trees (2026) (Form 41-0064 (2026)). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- City of Mississauga, Tree permits (2026 fees). Accessed October 19, 2026.
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