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TRUSTED BY SOUTH PASADENA, CA HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.5
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon251
    Verified arboricultural services reviews

Find Arborists in South Pasadena

Avatar for Roper Tree Surgeon and Landscaping
Roper Tree Surgeon and Landscaping
4.8(
21
)
Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving South Pasadena, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2000

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"I first hired Roper Tree Surgeon & Landscaping in June 2014 to do a major tree cutting on some huge ficus trees.  This project required a truck with a boom, another truck with a large wood-chipper, and an experienced crew capable of cutting big trees so close to my house.  Roper surpassed my expectations in every way, and I was thrilled with the outcome.
When Mr. Roper and I discussed additional projects, I was really impressed with his knowledge, and willingness to help me with free advice and without any sales pitch.   So I hired the company again in July for a large landscaping project, which included:  A new automatic sprinkler system, replacing the front lawn and parkway grass with sod, replacing old shrubs with planting of new flowers, trees, and shrubs, and root pruning ficus trees and replacing the sidewalk destroyed by the roots.
Roper Tree finished the project on time and on budget.  I couldn't be happier with the results!  Mr. Roper takes genuine pride in his work, does not look for shortcuts, and does what he promises to do.   He is driven by customer satisfaction.  I look forward to working with Mr. Roper again, and recommend him wholeheartedly!"
Recommended by61%of homeowners
Avatar for Maya Tree Service
Maya Tree Service
4.6(
89
)
Tree RemovalTree Stump - RemoveTree Trimming

Serving South Pasadena, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1994

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"These guys did a great job in removing my trees and the pricing was even better. Victor and his partner were very professional i would definitely recommend Maya tree service to everyone."
10 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by95%of homeowners
Avatar for Rock's Tree & Hillside Service
Rock's Tree & Hillside Service
4.7(
39
)
Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving South Pasadena, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1976

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had a landscaping design/build company until illness kept me from continuing. I felt like I was in good and knowledgeable hands when Rock came out for the estimate - he is an arborist so he understood exactly what I wanted. His crew showed up on time and were very professional with a very capable foreman who interpreted Rock's job description accurately, so the job was done perfectly and the place was clean afterwards."
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+26

2 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by97%of homeowners
Avatar for Nature's Tree Service
Nature's Tree Service
4.9(
8
)
Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving South Pasadena, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We specialize in safe tree removal and trimming along with a full range of additional services to enhance and beautify your property. Commercial & residential, our team of professionals can create healthy appealing foliage that can be enjoyed for years.

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+27

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Arborists questions, answered by experts

There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

  • Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.

  • Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.

  • Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.

Generally, homeowners do not need permission to cut down a tree on their own private property, but there are several exceptions where a permit may be required. You might need a permit if the tree is particularly large, old, or a protected species, such as a heritage tree. Trees located near public property or power lines can also be subject to special rules. Additionally, many local governments and homeowners associations (HOAs) have regulations controlling which trees can be removed to manage an area's appearance or prevent the spread of invasive species. To avoid hefty fines, it is crucial to check with your local government and HOA to determine if a permit is needed before you begin.

You don’t always need a permit to grind a stump, but you might need one depending on your location and the stump’s surroundings. Permits are often needed if the stump is part of a protected tree species, near public areas or utility lines, or close to environmentally sensitive zones like wetlands. Some cities also regulate noise and work hours. Always check local rules before grinding, and contact your city or county office if you're unsure.

While trees can grow in the curb strip between the sidewalk and the street, this placement often poses the problem of interfering with overhead power lines. It’s best to consult your local utility provider and tree planting service before transplanting a tree that might grow into power lines. Also, you should never work within 20 feet of a live power line to avoid the risk of electric shock. Tree branches should never touch nearby power lines, so it’s essential to ensure your tree isn’t in danger of growing too close to them.

Aim to have your trees inspected and pruned in early spring. At this point in the year, tree service professionals can note where there is old growth from winter and cut that back to encourage new growth for the rest of the year. Pruning at the wrong time of the year could make your trees prone to diseases.

The South Pasadena, CA homeowners’ guide to arboricultural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.