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A standard tree removal doesn’t include stump grinding. If you want your contractor to remove your tree and grind the stump, you must pay an extra charge. That said, you’ll likely save on the cost of stand-alone service—especially if it’s a small tree and they can finish both jobs in a single trip.

If major support roots are cut, the tree may become unstable. Many are located just below the soil’s surface. Even cutting roots that are less than one-half inch under or outside the edge of a tree’s canopy can cut off its water, causing it to decline, die, and eventually topple.

It is possible to cut down a tree on your property yourself, but we don’t recommend it. If the tree is short enough to easily reach the top branches, and the tree is far from power lines or structures, consider renting a chainsaw and removing it yourself. Trees that are larger than that, close to electrical lines, or close to fences, homes, sheds, or other structures should only ever be removed by professionals. Not only is the work dangerous, but you could damage structures on your property in the process.

Stump grindings are usually safe to use in soil, but in some cases, it’s not recommended. Wood chips in particular can bind nitrogen in the soil, which will make it difficult for grass to grow. That’s why it’s important to remove most wood chips and use healthy garden soil if you want to cover the stump spot with grass. Large wood chips may attract beetles and could encourage the growth of fungi when they decay, so you may want to remove them when using the grindings.