Tree removal
Whole-tree takedowns, from a dead backyard pine to a leaning oak over the roof.
Tree removal detailsWilmington, Leland, Hampstead & the beaches
Tree Service & Tree Removal in Wilmington, NC
Free, no-obligation quotes from independent local tree companies for removal, trimming, stump grinding and storm cleanup across New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.
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A free quote service for Wilmington tree work
We connect Wilmington-area homeowners with independent local tree companies for free, no-obligation quotes. The company you choose quotes, contracts and does the work directly with you. Describe the job once on the free quote form instead of calling around.
Requests spike in September and October, so asking for quotes before the next named storm gives you time to compare.
Tree services you can get quotes for
Eight kinds of tree work, each with its own guide to prices, permits and what to ask.
Tree trimming & pruning
Deadwood, roof clearance and crown thinning for oaks and crape myrtles, without topping.
Tree trimming details
Stump grinding & removal
Grinding below grade or full extraction, priced by stump diameter.
Stump grinding details
Emergency & storm tree removal
Trees on houses and fences after a storm. Some companies offer storm response; availability depends on the company and the storm.
Emergency details
Crane tree removal
For big trees over a house or in a tight yard where sections can't be roped down.
Crane tree removal details
Land & lot clearing
Brush, small pines and undergrowth cleared for a new home, addition or fence line.
Land details
Palm tree trimming
Dead fronds and seed stalks off sabal palmettos and other palms.
Palm tree trimming details
Arborist assessment & cabling
A second opinion on a leaning or declining tree, plus cabling for weak limbs.
Arborist assessment detailsTree work inside Wilmington city limits
The City of Wilmington has about 120,805 residents and a median home built in 1989 (American Community Survey 2024 5-year estimates). In the ZIP code that covers most of downtown and the Historic District, the median home dates to 1958. Forest Hills and Midtown also carry mature oaks over roofs and driveways.
That older canopy brings permit questions. In the City of Wilmington, a permit is required to remove any tree in the public right-of-way, and to remove trees 4 inches or larger on residential lots over one acre, in conservation buffers, or in local historic districts (which also need a Certificate of Appropriateness). Removing a specimen tree needs Board of Adjustment approval. Fines for unpermitted removal start at $1,200 per tree. Rules change, so confirm with City Zoning (zoning@wilmingtonnc.gov, 910-254-0900) before removing a large tree. Whether the specimen-tree rule reaches small single-family lots is unconfirmed, so email Zoning before removing a large live oak or cypress. Many HOAs also require architectural approval before tree removal; check your covenants. This is general information, not legal advice. Read more in our guide to the Wilmington tree removal permit.
Storms, sandy soil and Wilmington's trees
Storm history
Hurricane Florence made landfall at Wrightsville Beach on September 14, 2018, with a 105 mph gust at the airport. Over 90% of New Hanover County lost power and more than 1.2 million cubic yards of debris was collected.
Wet summers, shallow roots
Wilmington averages 60.15 inches of rain a year (NOAA 1991–2020 normals). Coastal soils such as Leon and Murville can hold water near the surface, and NC State Extension advises against large trees where the water table is within 18 inches: shallow roots, more windthrow risk.
A city canopy under pressure
Citywide canopy stood at 41.4% in 2020 after a 16% loss over four years. Laurel oak, a storm-prone species, makes up about 14% of the city's public trees. Wilmington received the 2025 Tree City USA Growth Award.
If a tree is touching or near a power line, stay away and call your electric utility (Duke Energy, or your co-op). Only utility-qualified crews should work near energized lines. See hurricane tree prep and wind-resistant trees.
What tree work typically costs
Typical ranges from published cost guides (2025–2026). Estimates, not quotes.
Wilmington averages run about $695 for tree removal, $298 for stump grinding and $371 for trimming. A 20-foot tree typically costs about $230–$430 to remove; an 80-foot tree about $900–$1,730.
How getting quotes works
Tell us about the job
Describe the tree, rough height and timing on the short form.
Hear from local companies
Independent tree companies serving your area contact you to look and quote.
Compare and choose
Compare written quotes. Hire one, or none.
More detail on each step is on how the quote process works.
Before you hire a tree company
Ask about insurance and credentials, and get a written quote that states cleanup, haul-away, stump grinding depth and whether a permit is included. Each service guide, starting with tree removal, has a full hiring checklist.
Areas we cover
Wilmington plus these communities. See all service areas.
Tree service questions
Is Wilmington NC Tree Removal a tree company?
No. We connect Wilmington-area homeowners with independent local tree companies for free, no-obligation quotes. The company you choose quotes, contracts and does the work directly with you. Wilmington NC Tree Removal does not perform tree work and never sets the price. Our part is passing your request along so you can compare written quotes.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Wilmington, NC?
Sometimes. Inside city limits, a permit is needed for any tree in the public right-of-way, and for trees 4 inches or larger on residential lots over one acre, in conservation buffers or in local historic districts. Fines start at $1,200 per tree. Email City Zoning before removing a large live oak or cypress. This is general information, not legal advice.
How much does tree removal cost in Wilmington?
Published cost guides put the Wilmington average around $695, with typical ranges from about $230–$430 for a 20-foot tree up to $900–$1,730 for an 80-foot tree. Cranes, storm damage, tight access and haul-away push the price up. These are estimates, not quotes; see our cost guide and calculator for details.
Will the City pick up the limbs after a tree is cut down?
The City of Wilmington collects curbside limbs up to 4 feet long and 6 inches in diameter, up to 7 cubic yards per collection. It does not pick up palm trunks, stumps or root balls, or debris created by commercial contractors. Make sure your quote includes haul-away so you aren't left with a pile.
More answers are on the FAQ page. Learn about Wilmington NC Tree Removal.
Wilmington NC Tree Removal is an independent quote service and is not affiliated with any tree company of a similar name. Wilmington NC Tree Removal does not perform tree work and holds no contractor, arborist or pesticide license.
Get that tree looked at before the next storm.
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