By The Precedent 
Tree maintenance is essential for safety, aesthetics, and promoting healthy growth. Tree lopping and pruning services keep your yard and property safe from hazards like falling branches, especially during storm seasons, and help maintain a pleasing landscape.
Costs for these services vary across Australia due to factors like tree size, location, and the complexity of the job.
Hourly Rates for Tree Lopping and Pruning
Tree lopping and pruning professionals in Australia generally charge between $35 and $150 per hour. Rates vary based on factors such as:
- Job complexity: Larger trees or those in challenging locations (close to structures or power lines) may require specialized equipment or skills, raising costs.
- Tree type and condition: Hardwood trees like eucalyptus require more effort and equipment, whereas softer wood varieties are easier to prune.
- Company experience: Well-established tree services with trained arborists tend to charge higher rates, but they bring the expertise and insurance coverage needed for safe operations.
Average Cost of Tree Lopping and Pruning Services
The total cost for tree lopping or pruning typically ranges from $200 to $1,000 or more, depending on job size and requirements. Below is a breakdown of average costs based on tree size and service type:
| Tree Size | Average Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Small Tree (under 5m) | $200 – $500 |
| Medium Tree (5m – 10m) | $400 – $800 |
| Large Tree (10m – 20m) | $800 – $1,500 |
| Extra-Large Tree (over 20m) | $1,500+ |
These rates cover the lopping or pruning process but may not include additional services like stump removal, cleanup, or green waste disposal, which can add to overall costs.
Factors Affecting Tree Lopping and Pruning Costs
Several factors impact the final cost of tree lopping or pruning, including:
- Tree Size: Taller, broader trees require more time, equipment, and sometimes additional crew members, which raises costs.
- Accessibility: Trees near buildings, power lines, or other obstacles pose additional risks and may necessitate specialized machinery like cranes or cherry pickers.
- Waste Removal: Some services offer to clear branches and debris as part of the package, but this may be charged separately, adding between $50 and $150 to the bill.
- Location: Urban areas with high living costs, such as Sydney and Melbourne, may have higher rates than smaller towns or rural locations.
- Seasonal Demand: Rates may increase during peak seasons, especially after storms or during bushfire preparation periods, when demand for tree services rises.
Tree Lopping vs. Tree Pruning Costs
Tree lopping and tree pruning are sometimes used interchangeably, but they have distinct purposes:
- Tree Lopping: This involves cutting down large sections of a tree, sometimes severely reducing its size. It’s often used when trees pose a safety hazard. Lopping tends to be more costly than pruning because it involves more extensive cutting and sometimes removal of large branches.
- Tree Pruning: This is a more precise technique focused on trimming branches to improve tree health, shape, and growth. Pruning is generally less expensive than lopping, with costs averaging around $200 – $500 for smaller trees.
Additional Costs to Consider
Tree lopping and pruning often come with associated services that add to the cost, such as:
- Stump Grinding: If you want the tree stump removed after lopping, stump grinding costs range from $150 to $500, depending on stump size and location.
- Green Waste Removal: Not all tree lopping services include cleanup and removal of tree debris. If needed, waste removal services can add $50 – $150 to your costs.
- Emergency Services: If you require urgent tree lopping due to storm damage or other hazards, expect to pay a premium, especially during weekends or after-hours.
Regional Cost Variations Across Australia
Costs for tree lopping and pruning vary by location, with some typical estimates in major cities:
- Sydney: Due to higher costs of living, Sydney rates for tree lopping average between $300 and $1,500, depending on tree size and complexity.
- Melbourne: Melbourne’s rates are similar, with typical costs ranging from $250 to $1,400.
- Brisbane: Slightly lower rates, with tree lopping costing around $200 to $1,200.
- Perth: Perth’s tree lopping services average between $200 and $1,300, though remote locations may incur additional travel fees.
- Adelaide and Hobart: Generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with rates averaging between $200 and $1,000.
How to Save on Tree Lopping and Pruning Costs
To get the best value, consider these money-saving tips:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain at least three quotes from reputable tree service companies to compare costs. Make sure to ask if the quotes include all necessary equipment, cleanup, and green waste removal.
- Opt for Off-Peak Season: Booking tree services during off-peak seasons, such as winter, may result in lower prices since demand is lower.
- Consider Regular Pruning: Regular pruning keeps your trees in shape and reduces the likelihood of large-scale lopping, which is more expensive.
- Bundle Services: If you have multiple trees that need maintenance, bundling them into one service call can reduce overall costs.
- DIY Small-Scale Pruning: For smaller branches or shrubs, consider pruning on your own to save on labour costs. However, leave larger trees to professionals due to safety risks.
Choosing a Tree Lopping and Pruning Service
Selecting the right tree service provider ensures the job is done safely and efficiently. Look for the following:
- Certification and Insurance: Choose a provider with certified arborists who follow Australian standards for tree care (AS 4373). Ensure they have liability insurance to protect you from accidents or property damage.
- Experience and Equipment: A reputable provider with experienced staff and proper equipment can handle even complex jobs safely and professionally.
- Transparent Pricing: Look for companies that provide clear and itemized pricing, including any additional costs for waste removal, equipment, or emergency services.
- Positive Reviews and Referrals: Check customer reviews and ask for referrals from friends or neighbours to find trustworthy and reliable providers.
Legal Requirements for Tree Lopping and Pruning in Australia
Certain Australian states and local councils have regulations around tree lopping and pruning. Before hiring a service, confirm with your local council if a permit is needed for large trees, particularly those considered “protected” or “significant.” Failing to adhere to local laws can lead to fines, so ensure all legal requirements are in order.
Conclusion
Tree lopping and pruning are essential services for maintaining property safety and aesthetics, especially with Australia’s diverse climate and vegetation. While costs vary widely depending on factors like tree size, location, and job complexity, understanding these elements can help you make informed decisions.
For homeowners in Australia, budgeting between $200 and $1,500 for these services is typical. If you’re in Perth and uncertain about a tree on your property, or if you’ve determined that it’s permissible to remove the tree and require professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to AB Trees. They are always eager to assist!