Tree Felling Cost Calculator South Africa - Prices & Permit Guide
Calculate tree felling costs in South Africa. Select the tree size, number of trees, access difficulty, and optional services like stump removal to get an instant cost estimate.
Tree Felling Cost Estimator
Estimated Tree Felling Cost
Cost Breakdown
Tree Felling Prices by Size
Tree felling cost depends mainly on height, trunk diameter, and risk. Larger trees require more equipment, more crew, and take longer to process. Here are typical price ranges for easy-access felling:
| Tree Size | Examples | Price per Tree |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 5m) | Shrubs, small ornamental trees | R1 200 |
| Medium (5-10m) | Most garden trees, fruit trees | R3 500 |
| Large (10-20m) | Mature jacaranda, oak, pine | R8 000 |
| Very Large (20m+) | Large eucalyptus, tall pines, protected species | R18 000 |
What Affects Tree Felling Cost?
- Tree height and diameter - the bigger the tree, the more expensive. A 20m+ eucalyptus requires a crane, rigging, and 4-6 hours of work compared to 1-2 hours for a small garden tree.
- Access - trees near buildings, power lines, or fences cost 25-60% more because they must be sectionally felled (cut in pieces and lowered by rope) rather than felled in one drop.
- Number of trees - most arborists offer 10-20% discounts for multiple trees on the same property because setup and transport costs are shared.
- Stump removal - stump grinding adds R1,000-R3,000 per tree depending on size. Chemical treatment is cheaper (R300-R500) but takes months to work.
- Green waste removal - expect R800-R2,000 per tree for removal of all branches, leaves, and debris. Some arborists include this in their quote, others charge separately.
- Protected species - certain trees such as yellowwood, marula, and some wild fig species are protected under the National Forests Act. Felling protected trees requires a permit from DFFE. Separate municipal permits can also apply to street trees and public land.
- Emergency rates - storm damage or fallen trees requiring urgent removal typically cost 30-50% more due to after-hours callouts and priority scheduling.
Do I Need a Permit to Cut Down a Tree?
You need a permit from DFFE to fell a protected tree species, even if the tree is on private property. Municipal permits can also apply to street trees, public land, and in some metros to trees in regulated areas. The exact local trigger varies by municipality, so avoid relying on one national rule of thumb. Felling a protected tree without a permit can lead to criminal penalties under the National Forests Act. A reputable arborist should confirm whether both DFFE and municipal approvals are required before quoting.
Prices are estimated averages for 2026 and vary by region, contractor, and specific site conditions. Always get at least 3 quotes and check that the arborist has public liability insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to cut down a tree in South Africa?
Tree felling costs in South Africa range from R500-R2,000 for a small tree (under 5m), R2,000-R5,000 for a medium tree (5-10m), R5,000-R15,000 for a large tree (10-20m), and R15,000-R30,000+ for very large trees over 20m. These prices are for easy-access felling and increase by 25-60% for difficult access near buildings or power lines.
Does tree felling include stump removal?
Usually not. Most tree felling quotes cover cutting the tree and processing the trunk and branches, but leave the stump. Stump grinding (mechanical removal) costs R1,000-R3,000 per stump. Chemical treatment is cheaper at R300-R500 per stump but takes 6-12 months for the stump to decompose. Always confirm what is included in your quote.
How do I choose a tree felling company?
Check that the company has public liability insurance (at least R1 million cover), ask for proof. Check Google or Facebook reviews. Get at least 3 written quotes that detail exactly what is included (felling, sectional dismantling, debris removal, stump treatment). A registered arborist (SA Institute of Forestry or International Society of Arboriculture) is preferable for large or complex removals.
What trees are protected in South Africa?
The National Forests Act protects about 47 indigenous tree species including the real yellowwood, Outeniqua yellowwood, wild fig, marula, camel thorn, baobab, tree ferns, and white stinkwood. The full list is published in the Government Gazette. Felling, cutting, or damaging a protected tree without a DFFE licence is an offence punishable by up to R5 million fine or 3 years imprisonment.
Can I fell a tree myself?
You can fell small trees on your own property if they are not protected species and do not require a municipal permit. However, for any tree taller than about 5 metres, or any tree near buildings, fences, or power lines, hiring a professional is strongly recommended. Tree felling is one of the most dangerous occupations - incorrect felling can cause property damage, serious injury, or death. Professional arborists have the training, equipment, and insurance to do the job safely.
How long does tree felling take?
A small tree (under 5m) takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. A medium tree (5-10m) takes 1-3 hours. A large tree (10-20m) with sectional felling takes 3-6 hours. Very large trees or those requiring crane access can take a full day. Stump grinding adds 30 minutes to 2 hours per stump.
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