Tree removal in Memphis, TN
Dead, leaning, and oversized trees taken down in controlled sections, with a crane when the tree hangs over the house. Free on-site estimates across Memphis and Shelby County.
- Crane-assisted removals
- Free on-site estimates
- Wood hauled away
- Stump grinding available
Safe tree removal near homes, fences, and power lines
Taking down a big tree is not a weekend job. One wrong cut can put a limb through a roof or a car. Our climbers tie in, cut the tree in sections, and lower each piece with ropes so it lands where we planned. When the tree is too big or too close to the house for rigging, we bring in a crane and lift sections out over the roof.
We remove trees of every size in Memphis, from small ornamentals to tall oaks, sweetgums, pecans, and pines in tight backyards. Once the tree is down, we cut it up, haul it off, and rake the area clean.
Signs a tree should come down
- Large dead branches, or no leaves when the trees around it are full
- A new lean, or soil cracking and heaving at the base
- Deep cracks or splits in the trunk
- Mushrooms, soft wood, or hollow spots at the base
- Roots lifting the driveway or pushing on the foundation
- Storm damage that left the tree split or hanging
Not sure? Our ISA Certified Arborist can look at it and tell you if the tree can be saved.
How we take a tree down
Every removal is planned before the first cut. The method depends on the tree, what is under it, and how much room we have.
Rope and rigging
Climbers cut the tree from the top down and lower each piece on ropes. This is how most backyard removals near houses and fences are done.
Crane-assisted removal
For big trees over roofs or with no drop zone, a crane holds each section while it is cut and lifts it out to the street. Faster and safer for the house.
Straight fell
In open space with nothing under it, a tree can be dropped in one piece. It is the quickest and lowest-cost option when it is safe.
Storm-damaged trees
Split, uprooted, or hung-up trees are under tension and dangerous. We cut them in the right order so nothing springs back.
What affects tree removal cost in Memphis
We do not quote by phone without seeing the tree, because these four things change the price the most.
Size of the tree
Taller and wider trees take more cuts, more time, and bigger gear.
Where it stands
A tree in an open front yard costs less than one between the house and a fence with no access.
Condition
Dead or rotten trees cannot always be climbed and may need a lift or crane.
Cleanup and extras
Haul away, stump grinding, and keeping the wood all change the final price.
You get one written price after we look at the job. No surprise charges after the work starts.
How a job goes
Same crew from the first look to the last rake. You always know the price before we cut.
- Call or send photosTell us about the tree and where it is. Photos help us plan.
- Free on-site estimateWe look at the tree, what is under it, and how we will get it down. You get one clear price.
- Climb, cut, and liftClimbers and, when needed, a crane take the tree down in controlled sections.
- Grind and clean upStumps ground if you want them gone, debris hauled, yard raked clean.
Memphis neighborhoods
- Raleigh
- Berclair
- Frayser
- East Memphis
- Midtown
- Downtown
- Whitehaven
- Hickory Hill
- Parkway Village
- Southwind
- Oakhaven
- Highland Heights
Common questions
How much does tree removal cost in Memphis?
Most residential removals fall somewhere between a few hundred dollars for a small, easy tree and a few thousand for a large tree over a house that needs a crane. Size, access, condition, and what is under the tree set the price. We give you a firm price after we see it.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Memphis?
Most trees on private residential lots in Memphis do not need a permit. Trees in the public right of way, on some commercial sites, and in some suburbs like Germantown and Collierville can have extra rules. We will tell you if a permit is likely when we come out.
Will tree removal damage my yard?
We work to keep damage low. Pieces are lowered by rope or lifted by crane instead of dropped, and we clean up when we are done. Soft ground after heavy rain can rut, and we will tell you before we start if that is a risk.
Is stump grinding included?
Stump grinding is priced on its own so you can choose. Most people add it to the same visit. See our stump grinding service.
Can you remove a tree near power lines?
For trees touching main lines, MLGW has to make the line safe first. For trees near the service drop to your house, we can often plan around it. Call us and we will tell you what is possible.
Does homeowners insurance pay for tree removal?
Usually only when the tree falls on a covered structure like your house, garage, or fence. A dead tree that is still standing is normally not covered. We give you photos and a written estimate for your claim.
Got a tree that needs to come down?
Free tree removal estimates. Answered 24 hours a day.