Top 10 Best Tree Services in San Diego, California

We feature professional tree service providers offering trimming, removal, and stump grinding. Selection is based on safety standards, experience, and customer reviews.

Emma Tree Service

Sunset Avenue, San Diego, California
4.8 (47 reviews)
  • Irrigation
  • Tree Trimming
  • Additional Repairs & Maintenance

At Emma Tree Service we specialize in fulfilling all of our clients needs and most strict requirements. We understand the need for a reliable and qual More Detail

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Estates Tree Service

Olive Street, San Diego, California
4.7 (103 reviews)
  • Tree stump removal
  • Tree planting
  • Tree transplanting
  • See More

Estates Tree Service has provided San Diego County with the best value in professional tree care services, tree trimming, and tree removal since 1992. More Detail

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LC Tree Service

Murphy Canyon Road, San Diego, California
4.7 (154 reviews)
  • Disease management - trees
  • Tree cabling or bracing
  • Tree transplanting
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Specialties L.C tree service specializes in large tree removal, tree pruning, and storm damage clean-up More Detail

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SavATree - Rancho Coastal Tree

Twain Avenue, San Diego, California
4.6 (303 reviews)
  • Disease management - trees
  • Tree cabling or bracing
  • Insect management - trees
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Tree pruning, crown reduction and thinning, tree restoration, tree removal, stump grinding, insect and pest control, and annual tree maintenance progr More Detail

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Ocean Beach Arborists

West Point Loma Boulevard, San Diego, California
4.6 (76 reviews)
  • Tree removal
  • Insect management - trees
  • Tree cabling or bracing
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ISA Certified and Licensed Arborists servicing San Diego County. Fully insured. Book now a free estimate at (619) 762-0455. More Detail

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Atlas Tree Service

Olive Drive, San Diego, California
4.4 (155 reviews)
  • Tree planting
  • Disease management - trees
  • Tree stump removal
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Our roots are planted, let us grow with you. Atlas Tree Service is a trusted tree care provider with certified arborists that review your project and More Detail

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The Branch

Via Flora Road, San Diego, California
4.1 (331 reviews)
  • Tree pruning or trimming
  • Shrub removal
  • Landscape maintenance
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The Branch is State Licensed (#619549), has ISA Certified Arborists, and ISA Certified Tree Workers: Please verify these credentials on our website. F More Detail

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The Davey Tree Expert Company

Eastgate Drive, San Diego, California
3.9 (176 reviews)
  • Tree pruning or trimming
  • Disease management - trees
  • Tree removal
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As your local San Diego tree service company, Davey's ISA Certified Arborists support both residential and commercial properties to ensure the health More Detail

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Nathan's Tree Services

Boston Avenue, San Diego, California
3.8 (131 reviews)
  • Tree stump removal
  • Tree transplanting
  • Tree removal
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Nathan’s tree service offers tree removal tree trim stump grinding History Established in 2019. family owned business with 20 years experienc More Detail

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Frequently Asked Questions

Tree removal is necessary if a tree poses safety risks, structural damage, or health concerns. Common reasons for removal include:

  • Dead or diseased trees that show signs of decay, brittle branches, or fungus growth.
  • Leaning trees with sudden tilts, which may be a sign of root damage and collapse.
  • Cracked or split trunks weaken the tree’s structure and make it hazardous.
  • Storm-damaged trees with broken limbs. 

A professional tree service an assess whether removal is necessary or if pruning and structural support are better alternatives.

Permit requirements depend on local regulations, tree size, and species. Many cities have laws protecting certain tree species or trees above a specific size, meaning removal may require approval. If the tree is located on public property, near sidewalks, or in conservation areas, a permit is often necessary. Some cases, such as emergency removals after a storm or when a tree poses an immediate safety risk, may not require a permit, but it is always best to check with local authorities. Tree service professionals are familiar with permit requirements and can often handle the paperwork on your behalf to ensure legal compliance.

Tree trimming frequency depends on the tree species, its location, and the reason for pruning. Most trees benefit from pruning every 1 to 3 years to maintain healthy growth, remove weak or dead branches, and prevent potential hazards. Fast-growing trees, such as willows or poplars, may require more frequent trimming to keep them from becoming overgrown.

The cost of tree removal varies based on size, location, difficulty , and additional services:

  • Small trees (under 30 ft.): $300 to $700
  • Medium trees (30–60 ft.): $700 to $1,500
  • Large trees (over 60 ft.): $1,500 to $2,500+

Additional costs may apply for:

  • Stump grinding ($100 to $500) if not included in the standard removal.
  • Emergency removal services, which often have higher fees.
  • Permit fees, depending on local regulations.

It’s recommended to get multiple quotes from verified tree service companies to ensure competitive pricing and professional work.

  1. Ensure safety first – Stay away if the tree is near power lines or has caused structural damage.
  2.  Call emergency tree services for immediate removal if needed.
  3. Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and file a claim.
  4. Document the incident with photos for insurance purposes.

Many tree services offer 24/7 emergency storm cleanup to handle urgent removals.