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Best 3 Tree Removal Services in Rapid City, SD

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Written By Callie Marsalisi|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Tree removal enhances the natural beauty of your yard by eliminating unwanted vegetation from your property. If you're looking to beautify your yard with the help of the right company, we can help. Below, find our picks for Rapid City's best tree removal companies.

Top Tree Removal Companies in Rapid City

Rock Solid Enterprises, LLC Logo

Rock Solid Enterprises

3.3/5
Based on 2 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Tree Removal

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Free quote
  • Informative resources
1021 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 605-673-3059 rocksolidsd.com
Sand Creek Tree Services Logo

Sand Creek Tree Services

4.7/5
Based on 8 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Tree Removal

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Free quote
2049 12th Ave, Belle Fourche, SD 605-569-9020 sand-creek-tree-services.business.site
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Facts about Rapid City
Average Tree Height:26 ft
Common Trees:Ponderosa Pine, Quaking Aspen, White Spruce
Average Daily Sunlight:55%
Hardiness Zone:5a
Wettest Month:May
Tree Removal Average Cost:$538

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How To Choose the Right Rapid City Tree Service

It's important to check for certain criteria, such as services and licenses, when comparing tree removal companies. We highlight key considerations below.

Vet the Company's Qualifications

Insurance is important for protecting both tree removal customers and workers. These policies can include workers' compensation, general liability, or professional liability insurance. Make sure that the policy mentions tree work coverage specifically, otherwise you might be liable for damage or injury that occurs on your property. Tree removal doesn't require a mandatory national certification, but companies might employ a certified arborist to perform inspections. An arborist is a specialist who's earned voluntary certifications from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Companies aren't required to have one on staff, but arborists provide many benefits due to their training in tree maintenance, care, and preservation.

Get Quotes From Multiple Companies

It's a good idea to request quotes from a handful of companies. This lets you compare aspects such as service fees, included services, and timelines to find the best deal.

Confirm the Company Performs Residential Tree Services

We recommend seeking out a company that specializes in residential tree services. Residential tree service companies have fewer locally -mandated service restrictions than commercial companies, which must follow certain local ordinances.

Request a Tree Risk Assessment

A tree risk assessment (TRA) involves visually inspecting a tree to determine the risk of the tree or its branches breaking. This is called tree failure. Evaluating tree failure before the start of work helps protect both workers and your property. Certified arborists typically conduct TRAs. Sometimes these services are offered for free, while other times, there's an additional fee. Speak with your tree removal company and ensure you have a TRA completed before starting work.

Ask About Stump Removal

Removing tree stumps is important because, if left unattended, they can attract disease and pests. Ask your tree removal company if it includes stump removal with its services. A professional will remove stumps either by hand or with specialized equipment. This service costs from $58 to $423, with the average Rapid City homeowner paying approximately $269.

How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Tree?

You can expect to pay an average of $538 for tree removal. Costs will vary from $262-$1,152 and are influenced by things like project size, tree health, and tree size and type. You may pay per acre instead of per tree if multiple trees need to be removed. Services will cost more if a tree has a high failure risk or requires additional labor, equipment, or safety precautions. You can expect to pay roughly $1,382 for emergency tree removal.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal in Rapid City

What are common tree issues?

Wind and storms often cause tree issues, such as broken branches, cracked trunks, or uprooting. Diseases and pests can affect the health of a whole area of vegetation. Even if a tree is not damaged by any of these factors, there can still be issues with branch and root overgrowth. Overgrown branches may extend too far from the tree and create hazards when they break. Overgrown roots can damage sidewalks, driveways, or septic tanks. If a tree poses a risk to your property, surrounding homes, cars, or power lines, make sure it gets immediate attention.

What's the difference between tree trimming and tree pruning?

Tree trimming and tree pruning both benefit a tree's health, but accomplish two distinct goals. Trimming aims to reduce overgrown branches and can improve moisture and light absorption. With tree pruning, excess or unhealthy branches are removed to stimulate growth. Both services occur at different times of the year and help improve your landscape.

How can I tell if a tree is dangerous?

There are certain ways you can tell if a tree is dangerous. Signs like fungus or mold growth, rot, missing bark, or dead branches may indicate disease. You may also notice cracking in the trunk or between branches. Some cracks might pose immediate danger if they're very deep in the trunk or on heavy branches. Have a tree evaluated immediately if you notice raised dirt surrounding the base or if it begins leaning.

Do I need to hire a professional for tree removal?

Yes. Professional help will protect you and your property. The typical DIYer doesn't have much experience using the dangerous equipment and climbing to the unsafe heights required for tree removal. This could lead to injury or property damage, or falling trees or branches hitting power lines, cars, homes, or a bystander. For this reason, we strongly recommend hiring a professional.

Is it okay to leave a downed tree on my lawn?

No. You should remove downed trees to avoid safety hazards or property damage. Downed trees can attract pests and damage large sections of your lawn. If the downed tree is a safe distance from your home, surrounding homes, and power lines, contact a tree removal company for help. If the downed tree poses an immediate safety risk, you'll need emergency tree removal.

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