Frequently Asked
Questions

Yes. Austin holds Maryland Tree Expert License #2536 — one of the most rigorous state certifications in tree care. We carry full general liability and workers’ compensation insurance on every job, protecting your property and our crew. You can verify our license at the Maryland DNR website.

Yes — all estimates are completely free and come with no obligation. Austin will visit your property, assess the job, and provide a written quote. We believe in transparency: you’ll know exactly what we’re doing and why before any work begins.

We’re based in Frederick, MD and primarily serve Frederick County and surrounding areas — including Hagerstown, Middletown, Urbana, Germantown, Rockville, Thurmont, Brunswick, Mount Airy, Boonsboro, and Poolesville. Not sure if we cover your area? Just give us a call.

Non-emergency jobs are typically scheduled within 1–2 weeks of the estimate. Emergency situations — storm damage, fallen trees, hazardous limbs — are handled as quickly as possible, often same day or next day. Call 240-344-6099 for emergency response.

Not necessarily, but it’s helpful to be available at the start so we can confirm any details, access requirements, or last-minute questions. If you can’t be home, just make sure we have access to the area and a way to reach you if needed.

Cost depends primarily on tree height, trunk diameter, and site accessibility. Using our formula: base cost = (height in feet × $12) + (trunk diameter in inches × $5), adjusted for site complexity. Rough ranges: Small trees (under 25 ft): $300–$700  ·  Medium (25–50 ft): $500–$1,375  ·  Large (50–80 ft): $975–$2,800  ·  Extra Large (80+ ft): $1,375–$4,925+. Use the cost estimator on our homepage for a ballpark, or call for a free on-site quote.

Stump grinding is a separate add-on service. The cost is based on trunk diameter: roughly $175–$525 depending on size. We recommend adding it at the same time as removal — it’s more efficient and often less expensive than coming back separately. Ask about multi-stump discounts if you have several.

All branches and debris are chipped and hauled away. Log sections can be left on-site if you want firewood — just let us know. Full debris cleanup is always included in our pricing. We leave your property cleaner than we found it.

It depends on your municipality. Some cities and counties in Maryland require permits for removing large or protected trees, especially in historic areas or near rights-of-way. We’re familiar with local regulations and will advise you during the estimate. In most cases, private residential trees on your own property don’t require a permit.

Yes — this is one of our specialties. Trees near structures require rigging and controlled lowering techniques rather than simple felling. Trees near power lines require coordination with the utility company. We have the equipment and experience to handle both safely. These jobs do carry a complexity surcharge (up to 70% above base rate) due to additional risk and labor.

Most trees benefit from pruning every 3–5 years. Fast-growing trees or those near structures may need attention more frequently. Young trees benefit from formative pruning every 2–3 years to establish good structure. Dead, diseased, or storm-damaged branches should be removed as soon as you notice them.

Topping is indiscriminate cutting of large branches to stubs, often done to reduce tree height quickly. It’s one of the most harmful practices in tree care — it creates large wounds that rarely seal properly, invites disease and decay, weakens the tree’s structure, and causes rapid regrowth of weak branches. We follow ISA best practices instead, using crown reduction and thinning techniques that achieve size management without harming the tree.

Standard grinding is 6–8 inches below grade, which is sufficient for replanting grass or groundcover over the area. If you’re planning to replant a tree or install deep landscaping, we can grind to 12 inches or deeper — just let us know at the time of estimate.

Call us immediately at 240-344-6099 — we respond 24/7. While you wait: stay away from the damaged area (especially if there are power lines involved), document everything with photos for your insurance claim, and call your homeowner’s insurance to open a claim. Do not attempt to remove the tree yourself.

Yes — emergency response outside of normal business hours carries a surcharge, typically $225–$800 above the base removal cost depending on the size and complexity of the job. This reflects the additional risk, mobilization cost, and crew availability required for after-hours response. We’ll always be upfront about the total cost before we begin.

Yes. We can provide a written assessment and documentation of the damage to support your homeowner’s insurance claim. Take photos before any cleanup begins, contact your insurance company to open a claim, and save all receipts. Many storm-related tree removals are partially or fully covered depending on your policy.