If you’re wondering how long tree removal takes, here’s your quick answer:
Small trees can be gone in a few hours. Medium ones usually take a full day. Bigger trees might need two or more days, especially if a crane is involved or permits are delayed. In New Jersey, local laws and utility mark-outs can stretch the whole process over a few weeks.
Let’s break it all down so you can plan better, avoid surprises, and even speed things up.
Quick Answer: Tree Removal Timeframes at a Glance
Here’s a rough guide based on the size of the tree and the job complexity:
Small Tree (Under 30 ft / <12” DBH) – 2 to 4 hours
Medium Tree (30–60 ft / 12–24” DBH) – 1 full day
Large Tree (60+ ft / 24–36” DBH) – 1 to 2 days
Extra-Large or Hazardous Trees – 2–3+ days, especially if they’re over houses or near power lines
Stump Grinding – 1 to 3 hours, or a separate visit
Permit Wait in NJ – 3 to 20 business days
Scheduling Lead Time – 2 to 14 days, longer in summer storms
What Affects Tree Removal Time?
Understanding how long a tree removal will take isn’t just about the size of the tree. Multiple factors combine to shape the actual timeline — from local permit delays to equipment used on-site. Below, we dive deep into each element that can either speed up or slow down your tree removal job in New Jersey.
1. Tree Size, Species, and DBH (Diameter at Breast Height)
Why it matters: The size of the tree is the most obvious factor — but not the only one.
Arborists use DBH, or Diameter at Breast Height, to assess tree size. It’s measured 4.5 feet above ground and helps determine:
The amount of wood volume to remove
The type of rigging required
Whether a permit is needed in many NJ municipalities
Whether special equipment (like a crane) is required
Time implications by DBH and height:
| Tree Size | DBH | Time Estimate | Common Equipment Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Tree | Under 12″ | 2–4 hours | Chainsaw, chipper |
| Medium Tree | 12–24″ | 1 full day | Bucket truck, rigging gear |
| Large Tree | 24–36″ | 1–2 days | Crane, climbers, chipper |
| XL/Hazard Tree | 36”+ or over 70 ft | 2–3 days | Crane, heavy rigging, loader |
Species impact:
Hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory are dense and require more time and more powerful saws.
Softwoods like pine, spruce, or poplar are lighter, easier to fell, and chip faster.
Multi-stem trees or trees with wide, unbalanced crowns add complexity and cutting time.
Palm trees (rare in NJ but found in greenhouses) can be fast to remove but slow to grind due to fibrous root systems.
2. Tree Condition, Health, and Risk Factors
Why it matters: A dead, decaying, or unstable tree can be far more dangerous — and time-consuming — to remove safely.
Key risk conditions:
Dead trees: Brittle limbs can snap unexpectedly during cutting.
Lean or root plate uplift: Indicates instability and high risk of premature fall.
Fungal decay or hollow trunks: Require strategic dismantling from the top down, often piece-by-piece.
Storm-damaged trees: Twisted limbs, hangers, or cracked trunks demand extra caution and sometimes rope-based retrieval from a distance.
Result: Crews must rig and lower sections slowly, increasing the time and crew size needed.
3. Access to the Tree and Work Area Conditions
Why it matters: Even a small tree can turn into a half-day ordeal if the crew can’t reach it with the right tools.
Common access issues that slow removal:
Fenced-in yards or no side gates
Steep grades or hillsides
Septic systems or pool decks that prevent machinery use
Tight proximity to houses, garages, sheds, or garden beds
When cranes or bucket trucks can’t be positioned close to the tree, crews have to climb manually, using saddles, ropes, and pulleys, then rig down branches to avoid damage. This process can double or triple the removal time.
4. Equipment Used: From Chainsaws to Cranes
Why it matters: The tools deployed often dictate the job speed — but not all sites are suitable for all gear.
Time-saving equipment (when access allows):
Crane: Ideal for removing large trees safely and quickly over structures.
Bucket truck: Speeds up branch removal on medium to large trees.
Grapple saw: Mechanized cutting that minimizes climbing, often used for emergency or hazardous removals.
Stump grinder: Needed for root-level grinding; may be tracked or wheeled depending on terrain.
Chipper & log truck: Used to clean up and haul large logs and debris.
Note for NJ homeowners:
In tighter suburban neighborhoods like Flemington or Clinton, large equipment may not fit down narrow driveways or past parked cars — which means longer setup times or manual dismantling.
5. Crew Size and Experience
Why it matters: A bigger or more experienced team can drastically reduce job time, especially for complex or risky removals.
A 2-man crew may need 2 full days for a large tree.
A 5-person team with a climber, crane operator, and ground crew can finish the same job in one day.
A certified arborist onsite helps with faster assessments, efficient rigging, and better adherence to township code.
Look for a company that sends ISA Certified Arborists — like we do at Midstate Tree — to ensure safety and speed.
6. Permits and NJ Utility Mark-Outs
Why it matters: Tree removal in NJ is often subject to local ordinances, permit requirements, and 811 mark-outs.
Permit delays:
Towns like Clinton, Washington, or Hackettstown may require permits for trees over a certain caliper (diameter) or species.
Permit reviews can take 3–20 business days, especially if a Shade Tree Commission or planning board is involved.
Some towns require a replacement tree plan.
811 mark-outs:
Required before grinding stumps or digging for large removals.
Takes 3 business days minimum (not including weekends).
Covers gas, electric, water, fiber optic, and sewer lines.
Pro tip: Apply for permits as soon as you approve your tree removal quote. You don’t need to wait for the crew to be available first.
7. Weather, Season, and Site Conditions
Why it matters: Weather can delay both scheduling and the actual removal process.
Delays caused by:
High winds, lightning, or rain: Unsafe for climbing or crane use.
Frozen ground: Can make stump grinding harder or even impossible.
Saturated lawns: Risk of ruts or machinery damage — crews may postpone to protect your property.
Also, spring and summer bring storm seasons, which cause spikes in emergency jobs. Homeowners booking routine removals may see longer lead times during these months.
8. Debris Removal and Cleanup
Why it matters: Tree removal isn’t over when the tree is down — cleanup adds time.
Typical add-ons:
Chipping all branches and hauling wood chips offsite
Hauling logs (especially if cut into firewood rounds or milled timber)
Backfilling and seeding stump areas
Final raking and site cleanup
Some clients request we leave logs for firewood — which can save haul-away time but adds cutting time. Others prefer full removal, which means loading and trucking away large volumes.
Also, some NJ towns require debris to be hauled only by licensed recycling or waste haulers — which adds time and coordination.
What You Can Control vs. What You Can’t
| Factor | Control Level | Tips to Speed It Up |
|---|---|---|
| Tree size & species | None | – |
| Site access | Medium | Clear pathways, open gates, move vehicles |
| Equipment used | Shared | Choose a provider with crane access & gear |
| Permit & mark-out timeline | Low | Submit paperwork immediately |
| Crew size & experience | High (your choice) | Choose certified, well-staffed teams |
| Weather | None | Book early to beat storm backlog |
| Cleanup scope | High | Decide in advance: keep wood or haul it all? |
Full Tree Removal Process (From First Call to Final Cleanup)
Knowing what to expect helps you plan better. Here’s how a typical job flows.
Step 1: Free Estimate (0–3 Days)
After you call or fill out the estimate form, we check out your tree—either from photos or with an on-site visit. We measure the DBH, look at hazards, and give you a quote and realistic timeline.
Step 2: Permit Application (3–20 Business Days)
In towns like Clinton, Phillipsburg, or Washington, you’ll often need a tree removal permit. We’ll help with the paperwork, but town approvals take time—especially if the Shade Tree Commission meets only twice a month.
Step 3: Utility Mark-Out (3+ Days)
Call 811 to mark gas, water, cable, and power lines underground. This is required before grinding stumps or digging.
Step 4: Scheduling the Job (2–14 Days)
Depending on the weather, backlog, and your flexibility, your job gets scheduled. Emergency jobs are prioritized, especially if a tree threatens a home or power lines.
Step 5: Equipment Setup (30–90 Minutes)
Crews may need to set up cranes, lay down plywood to protect your lawn, and prep rigging systems.
Step 6: Tree Cutting (Hours to Multi-Day)
The actual removal can be fast—especially if the tree is straightforward. But complex jobs take longer, especially near homes, pools, or electric wires.
Step 7: Hauling and Stump Grinding
Some folks want us to leave firewood rounds; others want full cleanup. Stump grinding may be done the same day or scheduled later, depending on the mark-out.
Step 8: Final Check
Some towns require us to confirm removal or plant a new tree as part of permit compliance.
1-Day vs. Multi-Day Jobs
Not all tree removals are created equal. While some jobs wrap up in just a few hours, others stretch into multi-day operations due to the tree’s size, location, risk level, and the equipment required. Understanding how job timelines vary helps you plan better — and avoid surprises.
Let’s break down the key categories by tree size, DBH (diameter at breast height), and technical complexity, using real-world examples based on common scenarios in New Jersey.
Small Trees (Under 30 ft / <12” DBH)
Typical Duration: 2–4 hours
Permit Required? Rarely
Equipment Used: Chainsaw, chipper, minimal rigging
Crew Needed: 2–3 workers
Stump Grinding? Often same day
These are the easiest and quickest removals. Think of ornamental trees, dogwoods, redbuds, or younger maples and pines growing in open areas. Most small trees can be taken down without heavy rigging and often don’t require a bucket truck or crane.
Common examples:
Japanese Maple over a garden bed
25-ft ornamental pear in front yard
Narrow spruce on the property edge
Access Note: If the tree is easily accessible with no nearby utilities, fences, or landscaping, the job may be done in less than half a day — including stump grinding.
📍 Washington Township Case Study:
28-ft crabapple tree near driveway removed in 3.5 hours. No permit required. Stump grinding added 45 minutes.
Medium Trees (30–60 ft / 12–24” DBH)
Typical Duration: 1 full day
Permit Required? Often — especially for trees over 16″ DBH in NJ
Equipment Used: Chainsaws, bucket truck or climber, chipper, rigging
Crew Needed: 3–4 workers
Stump Grinding? Same or next day (pending mark-out)
Medium trees often grow in front yards, side setbacks, or near driveways. These jobs usually require:
Aerial access via bucket truck or climber
Rigging techniques to safely lower limbs
Caution around buildings, fencing, or electric service lines
These jobs tend to be more complex than small trees but don’t always require a crane.
Common examples:
45-ft Norway Maple over garage
55-ft pine with slight lean toward neighbor’s yard
60-ft ash tree with dead upper limbs
Permit Insight: Most NJ towns (e.g., Clinton, Phillipsburg) require permits for trees above a certain caliper (often 8–16″). Applying for the permit adds 5–20 business days to the project timeline if you haven’t submitted early.
🛠️ Clinton, NJ Example:
58-ft white oak in side yard took 1 day with bucket truck. Permit took 7 business days. Stump grinding completed 2 days later after mark-out.
Large Trees (60+ ft / 24–36” DBH)
Typical Duration: 1.5 to 2 days
Permit Required? Almost always
Equipment Used: Bucket truck, rigging gear, log truck, possibly a crane
Crew Needed: 4–5+ workers
Stump Grinding? Usually on second day or separate visit
Large trees have tall canopies, wide trunks, and often spread over homes, roads, or power lines. Removal involves:
Multiple rigging points
Cutting and lowering branches section-by-section
Cutting trunk sections (“log rounds”) into manageable pieces
Extensive hauling and cleanup
These trees may exceed 75 feet in height, especially mature oaks, poplars, or sycamores. Trees in tight lots, or growing through decks, fences, or sheds, increase the complexity.
Common examples:
70-ft red oak over home
65-ft tulip poplar beside pool enclosure
80-ft silver maple near power lines
Timeline Consideration: Even with great crew size, the job might require 2 days just for safety and logistics. Stump grinding is often done during a separate visit.
🪓 Flemington Example:
72-ft oak with wide canopy took 2 full days to remove using a bucket truck and ground crew. Mark-out required. Permit took 10 business days.
Extra-Large, Hazardous, or Crane-Assisted Removals
Typical Duration: 2–3+ days
Permit Required? Definitely
Equipment Used: Crane, climber, grapple saw, loader, chipper, multiple trucks
Crew Needed: 5–6 workers including crane operator
Stump Grinding? Scheduled after primary removal
These are the most complex tree removals, involving:
Crane mobilization and setup time
Traffic control (if crane is set up near a roadway)
Power company coordination (if trees are touching wires)
Extensive rigging & safety planning
Cranes are used when:
The tree is too hazardous to climb
The tree is directly over structures
The property is too tight for safe drop zones
The actual crane-assisted cutting can be fast — but setup, transport, logistics, and debris handling add days to the full project.
Common examples:
90-ft decaying maple leaning toward house
Tree growing in backyard with no alley access — over 2 homes
Tree entangled in JCP&L power line
Timing Factors:
Crane scheduling can require 5–10 days advance notice
Power shutdowns may require 3–7 days of coordination
Town permits could take 2–3 weeks depending on review cycle
⚠️ High Bridge Crane Job:
80-ft hazardous oak with trunk rot removed via crane in 2.5 days. Power temporarily disconnected. Shade Tree Commission reviewed the permit over 2 meetings (19-day wait).
Timeline Summary Table
| Tree Type | Size / DBH | Avg. Duration | Permit Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Tree | Under 30 ft / <12” | 2–4 hrs | Rarely | Basic removal |
| Medium Tree | 30–60 ft / 12–24” | 1 day | Often | Rigging may be needed |
| Large Tree | 60–75 ft / 24–36” | 1.5–2 days | Almost always | Bucket or rigging |
| Crane / Hazard Tree | 70+ ft / 36”+ or risky | 2–3+ days | Always | Complex setup, permits, and logistics |
How NJ Permits Can Slow It Down
Tree removal in New Jersey is not always a quick phone call and a saw away. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their local municipality requires a tree removal permit — even if the tree is on private property.
Depending on your town, permits can take anywhere from 3 to 20 business days (or longer) to obtain. In some cases, your application may need to be reviewed by a Shade Tree Commission or zoning board, which can extend your timeline by weeks.
Let’s break down why, when, and where permits can hold up your removal — and what you can do to move faster.
1. When Does NJ Require a Tree Removal Permit?
While there is no statewide tree ordinance in New Jersey, most towns and counties have their own local regulations. These rules often depend on tree size, species, location, and quantity.
You will typically need a permit if:
The tree is healthy and over a certain DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) — often 8″–24″, depending on town.
You are removing multiple trees at once (e.g., three or more).
The tree is located within the public right-of-way or on a protected street.
The tree is considered historic, ornamental, or part of a buffer zone or conservation easement.
The tree is part of a subdivision plan with reforestation requirements.
Example: In Washington Township (Warren County), a permit is required to remove any tree over 16″ DBH on residential property. In Clinton Town, a permit is required for removal of three or more trees or trees over 8” in diameter if they’re visible from public roads.
2. Common Permit Requirements in NJ Towns
Each municipality sets its own permit rules, but here’s what you can expect:
| Typical Permit Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Basic contact info, property location, tree species & reason for removal |
| Site Plan or Property Map | Showing location of tree(s) to be removed |
| Tree Size / Caliper | Measured in inches at DBH (typically 8″–24″) |
| Photos of Trees | Often required for visual review by inspectors or Shade Tree Commission |
| Reason for Removal | Hazardous, diseased, interfering with structure, etc. |
| Replacement Plan | Some towns require replanting or payment to a tree fund |
| Inspection or Arborist Evaluation | Some towns require on-site inspection or a letter from a Certified Arborist |
| Application Fee | Ranges from $0–$100+ depending on town and tree count |
3. Shade Tree Commissions: Why They Delay Things
A Shade Tree Commission is a municipal board tasked with protecting trees in public spaces and often private lots. These commissions:
Review tree removal permit applications
Evaluate whether a tree is hazardous or healthy
Require public notice or meetings in some towns
Set conditions for replanting or mitigation
They typically meet monthly or bi-weekly, so if you submit your permit right after a meeting, your application might not be reviewed for 2–4 weeks.
Local example:
In High Bridge, NJ, tree removal permits must be submitted at least 10 business days before the Shade Tree Commission meeting.
In Phillipsburg, the Commission meets once per month, and permits can only be issued afterward.
4. Common NJ Towns with Tree Permit Delays
Here are a few local areas where tree permits are regularly enforced and can cause delays:
| Town | Permit Requirement | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Washington, NJ | Trees over 16” DBH require permit + inspection | 7–15 business days |
| Clinton, NJ | Permit needed for 3+ trees or any in public view | 5–10 business days |
| Flemington, NJ | Requires Shade Tree Commission approval for many residential removals | Up to 20 business days |
| High Bridge, NJ | Monthly commission meeting; permit only reviewed during scheduled session | 15–30 calendar days |
| Hackettstown, NJ | May require zoning board approval if in conservation zone | Case-by-case (up to 3 weeks) |
Tip: Always check your town’s official tree ordinance or call the zoning or planning office before scheduling your job. We’re also happy to guide you through the paperwork at Midstate Tree.
5. Do Emergencies Require a Permit in NJ?
In most towns, no permit is needed when:
The tree is a clear danger to people or property (e.g., storm damage, leaning trunk)
A certified arborist deems it structurally unsound
The tree has already fallen or is blocking roads
However, documentation is key:
Take photos before removal
Get a written hazard report from a certified arborist if possible
Notify your municipality within a reasonable time (some towns ask for notification within 5–10 business days)
Note: If your tree touches power lines, contact your utility company first (e.g., JCP&L or PSE&G). Arborists can’t legally remove trees under active voltage.
6. How to Avoid Permit-Related Delays
Here’s how you can save time on the front end:
- Ask during your estimate: At Midstate Tree, we always assess whether your removal needs a permit and advise accordingly.
- Apply ASAP: Submit your permit request as soon as you approve the quote — don’t wait for a crew date.
- Provide full documentation: Include photos, DBH measurement, and a clear reason for removal.
- Follow up with your township: Some towns process faster if you make a polite follow-up call.
Does Stump Grinding Happen the Same Day as Tree Removal?
Short answer: Sometimes it does — but not always. Whether or not stump grinding happens the same day as your tree removal depends on factors like utility clearance, crew scheduling, weather, and ground conditions.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Stump Grinding, and Why Is It Separate?
Stump grinding is the process of removing the visible portion of the tree stump and part of the root flare using a specialized machine called a stump grinder. This machine has a fast-spinning carbide-toothed wheel that shreds the wood into mulch.
Unlike cutting down a tree, which can be done quickly with chainsaws and rigging, stump grinding requires extra equipment, mark-outs for underground utilities, and sometimes different crew members.
Typical Stump Grinding Timeline
| Tree Size | Stump Diameter | Grinding Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 12” DBH) | 12–18” | 30–45 minutes |
| Medium (12–24” DBH) | 18–36” | 1–2 hours |
| Large (24”+ DBH) | 36”+ | 2–3+ hours |
Grind depth typically ranges from 6” to 12”, depending on whether you plan to replant or lay sod afterward.
Utility Clearance: The Biggest Factor
In New Jersey, before any stump grinding can take place, the area must be cleared of underground utilities through a NJ One Call 811 mark-out.
What does the mark-out check for?
Electric service lines
Gas lines
Water mains
Sewer pipes
Fiber optic/cable/internet
How long does this take?
Expect a minimum 3 business day wait — not including weekends or holidays. No licensed tree company will grind a stump legally without it.
Weather and Ground Conditions
If the ground is:
Saturated with rain
Frozen or covered with snow
Near soft soil like septic fields
… then the stump grinder may sink, get stuck, or cause lawn damage. In those cases, crews may wait for drier conditions and return later.
Crew Scheduling
Many professional tree services (including Midstate Tree) use specialized stump grinding crews that operate independently from the removal team.
So, even if your tree is taken down today, stump grinding may be scheduled for another day depending on:
Grinder availability
Route optimization
Crew workload
Whether utilities are marked in time
Can I Replant or Build Over the Stump?
If you plan to:
Install sod
Replant a new tree
Build a shed, fence, or patio
… you’ll need deeper grinding — up to 12–16 inches and a full surface cleanup.
Midstate Tree offers optional backfill, topsoil, and seeding services to restore your lawn post-grind. Just mention it during your quote.
Pro Tips to Ensure Same-Day Grinding (If Possible)
Approve your quote early — we’ll schedule 811 mark-out immediately
Tell us in advance if you want stump grinding included
Check for surface obstructions (e.g., landscape lighting, irrigation)
Make sure the stump is accessible (no fences or soft ground in the way)
Ask if your removal & grinding will be done by one crew or separate crews
What About Emergency Tree Removals?
Tree emergencies are different. When a tree falls suddenly, leans dangerously, or comes into contact with a structure or utility line, you don’t have time to wait for permits or mark-outs.
What Qualifies as an Emergency?
A tree has fallen onto your roof, car, or power lines
The trunk has split or cracked due to wind or ice
The tree is hollow and leaning dangerously
There is severe root uplift or soil displacement
The tree is blocking a road or driveway
If your tree poses an immediate safety hazard, removal can usually be performed right away, without a permit.
Documentation Is Still Important
Even if your township waives the permit, be sure to:
Take photos of the hazardous condition
Request a written hazard report from an ISA Certified Arborist
Notify your town within a few days after removal
Some municipalities may still require after-the-fact reporting, especially if the tree was on a regulated property (e.g., historic district or street tree).
What If the Tree Is on Power Lines?
Never attempt removal yourself. If live wires are involved:
Call your electric utility (e.g., PSE&G or JCP&L) immediately
Only once power is de-energized can our crews begin the job
We often coordinate directly with utility companies for safety clearance
How Fast Can We Respond?
At Midstate Tree, we offer 24/7 emergency response in Warren and Hunterdon County, NJ.
Many emergency jobs are completed same day
If weather or conditions don’t allow full removal, we’ll at least make the site safe immediately
We can return the next day for clean-up, debris removal, and stump work
Emergency Tree Removal Timeline (Real Example)
Storm-damaged pine tree leaning toward home in Clinton, NJ
Call received at 8:12 AM
Onsite by 9:00 AM with climber and ground crew
Removal complete by 1:30 PM
Cleanup and stump grinding scheduled next dry weather window
No permit needed, documentation provided for insurance
Real Timeline Examples
Small Maple in Backyard, Easy Access
Permit: Not needed
Mark-out: Not needed
Removal + Stump: 1 half-day
Total time: 2–3 days from quote to finish
Large Oak Over Driveway, Crane Needed
Permit: Required (10 business days)
Mark-out: 3 days
Removal: 2 full days
Total time: 3–5 weeks
Emergency Pine on Wires
Permit: Waived
Power company cleared lines
Removal: Same day
Total time: <1 day
Serving NJ with Safe, Fast Tree Removal
We handle everything—from permits and utility checks to stump grinding and cleanup. With certified arborists, modern equipment, and deep experience in Warren and Hunterdon County, we’ll get your job done right, without the headaches.
Want a fast, safe, and affordable tree removal?
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