How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Tree in Fort Lauderdale? (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer: Tree removal in Fort Lauderdale costs between $300 and $6,000 for most properties, with the average homeowner paying around $1,200. The biggest factors driving your price are tree height, location on the property, and Broward County’s strict tree ordinance permit requirements.
Fort Lauderdale sits inside a coastal zone with unique wind patterns and soil conditions. This means trees here face different stressors than inland properties. That adds cost — but it also means you need certified professionals who understand local wind loads and root systems.
Average Cost Breakdown
| Cost Level | Price Range | Typical Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $300 – $600 | Small tree, under 30 ft |
| Mid-Range | $600 – $1,500 | Medium tree, 30–60 ft |
| High-End | $1,500 – $6,000+ | Large tree, 60+ ft, complex |
Budget gets you basic removal of a small tree under 30 feet tall. It usually involves a simple climb or pole saw work with no crane needed. This works for young palms or small ornamental trees in open backyards.
Mid-range covers medium-sized trees between 30 and 60 feet. This often requires a bucket truck or more complex rigging. It covers most standard backyard trees that are healthy but need removal due to space or safety.
High-end covers large trees over 60 feet or those in tight spaces near power lines. It may include crane rental, stump grinding, and complex debris hauling. This is common for mature Live Oaks or Royal Palms near the coast.
These prices reflect Fort Lauderdale market rates as of early 2026 and include labor, equipment, debris hauling, and stump removal if specified. They do not include permit fees charged by the City of Fort Lauderdale or structural damage repairs found during the job.
What Affects the Cost in Fort Lauderdale
1. Tree Size
Height and diameter drive the bulk of the labor cost. A small tree under 30 feet can be removed in under two hours for $300–$600. A medium tree between 30 and 60 feet takes a full day and runs $700–$1,500. Large trees over 60 feet require heavy machinery and can exceed $3,000.
2. Location and Access
If a tree is near a house, fence, or power line, labor doubles. Tight spaces require careful rigging and manual lowering of branches. This adds $500–$1,500 compared to an open field. Access for dump trucks also matters — narrow driveways or HOA restrictions can increase fees.
3. Species and Health
Royal Palms and Live Oaks are common in South Florida but require specific techniques. Dead or diseased trees are more dangerous and unpredictable. They often require 20–40% more labor due to the need for extra safety measures and slower work speeds.
4. Stump Removal
Most quotes cover removal of the trunk and branches but leave the stump. Grinding the stump below grade costs an extra $150–$400 depending on diameter. Full stump extraction with soil backfill is significantly higher at $500–$1,000 per stump.
5. Permit Fees
The City of Fort Lauderdale requires permits for many tree removals. Fees range from $50 to $250 depending on the species and size. Protected species like Live Oaks cost more to replace and require special approval. Your contractor should handle this, but you pay the fee.
6. Emergency Service
If a tree fell during a storm, emergency removal costs more. After-hours calls and immediate response time add a premium. Expect to pay 20–30% more for storm cleanup compared to scheduled removal during normal business hours.
Cost by Tree Size
| Tree Size | Height Range | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 30 ft | $300 – $600 |
| Medium | 30–60 ft | $600 – $1,500 |
| Large | 60–80 ft | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Extra Large | Over 80 ft | $3,000 – $6,000+ |
Small trees are typically young palms or shrubs. They do not require heavy equipment like cranes. A standard crew can finish this work in a single morning. This is the most affordable category for homeowners.
Medium trees are the most common removal request. They are tall enough to block views or reach power lines. Removal requires climbing gear or bucket trucks. The cost reflects the increased labor time and insurance requirements.
Large trees often include mature Live Oaks or Coconut Palms. These weigh significantly more and require rigging to prevent damage to landscaping. Crane rental may be necessary, adding $1,000+ to the base price.
Extra Large trees are rare and dangerous. They are often near structures or in flood zones. Removal requires specialized engineering and heavy machinery. Prices vary widely based on site complexity and debris hauling distance.
Florida-Specific Considerations
Tree Ordinance: The City of Fort Lauderdale has a strict Tree Preservation Ordinance. You cannot remove protected species without a permit. Protected trees include Live Oaks, Palms over a certain caliper, and others listed in the municipal code. Fines for illegal removal can reach $500 per tree.
Permits: Apply through the City of Fort Lauderdale Development Services Department. You can submit online via their portal or in person at City Hall. Fees vary from $50 to $250. The process takes 5–10 business days. Your contractor should pull the permit before starting work.
Insurance Impact: Removing a dead tree prevents future claims. If a tree falls on your home during a storm, insurance covers the damage but not the preventive removal. However, removing a hazard tree can prevent a non-renewal notice from your carrier. Keep all receipts for mitigation work.
HVHZ and Wind: Fort Lauderdale is in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone. Trees here grow differently due to salt air and constant wind exposure. Roots may be shallower, making removal more complex. Professionals must account for wind loads when rigging branches during removal.
My Safe Florida Home: If your home was built before 2008 and is homesteaded, you may qualify for a free wind inspection. If a tree poses a threat, grants up to $10,000 might help with mitigation. This program focuses on hardening your home against hurricanes.
Season: Best time to remove trees is January through March. This avoids peak hurricane season when crews are booked for storm damage. Rainy season (May–October) brings daily thunderstorms that delay projects. Dry season offers better footing for heavy equipment.
Soil Conditions: South Florida has high water tables and sandy soil. Trees often root shallowly. Excavating stumps can be difficult and may require water extraction first. This adds $100–$300 to stump removal costs compared to inland areas.
How to Save Money on Tree Removal in Fort Lauderdale
Get at least 4 written quotes. Contractor pricing varies by 20–35% for identical scope in Fort Lauderdale. On a $1,200 job, that’s $250–$400 in potential savings. Make sure each quote itemizes labor, equipment, stump grinding, and permit fees separately.
Schedule in dry season. January through March is slower for arborists. You’ll have more leverage to negotiate and fewer weather delays. Some contractors offer 5–10% off-season discounts for non-urgent removals.
Keep the wood if allowed. Many contractors charge to haul green waste. If you have a wood stove or firewood needs, ask if they will leave the logs for you. This can save $100–$300 in hauling fees.
Bundle stump grinding. If you plan to remove the stump later, do it now. Doing both in one trip saves mobilization fees. It costs $150–$400 to grind now versus $200–$500 later.
Check for insurance claim eligibility. If your tree fell due to a named storm, your insurance may cover part or all of the removal. File the claim before signing a contractor agreement. Be cautious of contractors who offer to “handle the insurance” — work with your adjuster directly.
When to Remove Your Tree — Warning Signs
Your tree is dead or dying. Brown leaves in summer or brittle branches indicate structural failure. Dead trees in Fort Lauderdale can fall unexpectedly during a gust of wind. Removal is safer than waiting for a storm to knock it down.
You see root damage. Soil heaving or exposed roots near the foundation mean the tree is unstable. Sandy soil shifts easily here. A leaning tree with lifted roots is a major liability for your home and neighbors.
It is too close to power lines. Trees touching power lines are dangerous and illegal to touch yourself. Utility companies may trim branches, but they won’t remove the tree. Hire a certified arborist to handle this safely.
The trunk is rotting. Soft wood or fungal growth at the base means the trunk is hollowing out. These trees can snap without warning. A 50-foot trunk falling on a home costs far more than removal.
Neighbors are complaining. If a tree drops fruit or debris onto adjacent property, it creates liability. Florida law requires property owners to maintain safe trees. Removing it prevents a potential lawsuit over property damage.
How to Hire a Tree Removal Contractor in Fort Lauderdale
Verify their Florida license at MyFloridaLicense.com. You need a Certified Landscape Contractor (CLC) or a Tree Removal Specialist license. General Contractors may do it, but check their scope.
Confirm active insurance. Ask for a Certificate of Insurance showing general liability (minimum $1 million) and workers comp. Call the insurer directly to verify coverage is current.
Check for a Broward County local business tax receipt. This confirms they’re registered locally, not a storm chaser from out of state.
Get 3–4 written estimates with line-item breakdowns — tree height, diameter, stump grinding, permit responsibility, cleanup, and timeline.
Check reviews on Google and BBB. Look for patterns in complaints, not just star ratings. Specifically look for mentions of property damage or hidden fees.
Never pay more than 10% upfront. Florida Statute 489.126 restricts contractor deposits. Payment should tie to milestones: deposit, removal complete, stump ground, final cleanup.
Get everything in writing. Contract must include: scope, tree species, dates, payment schedule, warranty terms, permit responsibility, and cleanup plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost in Fort Lauderdale in 2026?
Most homeowners pay between $300 and $6,000. The average is around $1,200. Your actual cost depends on tree size, location, and whether a permit is required by the city.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, often. Apply through the City of Fort Lauderdale Development Services. Budget $50–$250. Protected species like Live Oaks always require a permit. Never let a contractor skip the permit — it can result in fines when you sell.
How long does a tree removal take in Fort Lauderdale?
Small trees take 2–4 hours. Large trees take 1–3 days. Rainy season can add 1–2 days of weather delays. Crane work extends the timeline significantly.
Does homeowners insurance cover tree removal?
Storm damage (wind, fallen trees) is typically covered minus your deductible — often 2% of insured value for hurricane claims in Florida. Preventive removal of healthy trees is never covered.
Can I remove my own tree in Florida?
Florida allows it for small trees, but large trees require licensed professionals. You still need permits for protected species. Insurance companies may refuse to cover damage caused by unlicensed tree work. For most people, it’s not worth the risk.
Does stump removal cost extra?
Yes, stump grinding adds $150–$400 depending on diameter. Full extraction is more expensive at $500–$1,000. Ask if this is included in your initial quote to avoid surprises.
Bottom Line
Removing a tree in Fort Lauderdale runs $300 to $6,000 for most homes, with medium trees at the sweet spot of $600–$1,500. The most important thing to know: Fort Lauderdale’s Tree Ordinance requires permits for many species, and failing to get one can cost you hundreds in fines. Get quotes from at least 3 licensed Florida arborists and verify every license at MyFloridaLicense.com.
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