Tree removal in Ottawa costs between $300 and $3,000+ per tree depending on size, location, and complexity. Small trees (under 25 feet) cost $300-$800, medium trees (25-50 feet) cost $800-$1,500, large trees (50-75 feet) cost $1,500-$2,500, and very large trees (75+ feet) cost $2,500-$5,000+. Stump grinding costs an additional $150-$400 per stump. Complete stump removal (extracting the root ball) costs $300-$800 but is only necessary if you plan to build in that location. Emergency tree remova...
The City of Ottawa has a Tree Protection Bylaw that regulates tree removal on private property. Trees with a trunk diameter of 10 cm (4 inches) or more at breast height (1.4 metres) generally require either a permit or meet an exemption to be removed. Permit-free removals include: trees in the rear yard that are less than 50 cm diameter, dead or hazardous trees (an arborist's report may be required), and trees within 1 metre of an existing building. All other removals may require a tree cutting...
Tree size is the primary cost factor. Larger trees require more labour, larger equipment, and more time. A 30-foot maple takes 2-3 hours to remove, while a 70-foot oak may take a full day. Location and access significantly affect cost. A tree in an open backyard with easy equipment access is straightforward. A tree near power lines, between buildings, or overhanging structures requires careful rigging and dismantling from the top down — adding 50-100% to the cost. Tree species matters. Hardwoo...
Only hire ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certified arborists for tree removal. Certification ensures they have the training, knowledge, and insurance for safe tree work. Verify certification at treesaregood.org. Insurance requirements: tree removal contractors must carry minimum $2 million liability insurance and WSIB coverage. Trees falling on your home, your neighbour's property, or power lines without adequate insurance coverage could be financially devastating. Ask for proof o...
Stump grinding ($150-$400 per stump) is the most common approach. The stump is ground down 6-12 inches below grade, and the hole is filled with the resulting wood chips. Grass can be planted over the area within a season. The roots remain in the ground and decompose naturally over 5-10 years. Complete stump removal ($300-$800) extracts the stump and major roots. This is only necessary if you plan to build, pour concrete, or plant a large tree in the same location. It creates a larger hole that ...
Small trees cost $300-$800, medium $800-$1,500, large $1,500-$2,500, and very large $2,500-$5,000+. Stump grinding adds $150-$400. Emergency removal costs 50-100% more.
Trees with trunks 10 cm or larger may require a permit under Ottawa's Tree Protection Bylaw. Exceptions include rear-yard trees under 50 cm, dead/hazardous trees, and trees within 1 metre of a building.
Winter (November-March) is often cheapest due to lower demand. Late fall is ideal — leaves have dropped (reducing weight and mess) and frozen ground minimizes lawn damage. Avoid spring bird nesting season when possible.
Small trees under 15 feet can be DIY-removed with proper safety equipment. Any tree near power lines, structures, or that requires climbing should be done by a certified arborist. Falls from trees and chainsaws are extremely dangerous.
After stump grinding, roots remain in the ground and decompose naturally over 5-10 years. They rarely cause problems. If you're building in the area, complete stump and root removal is recommended.